Manchester United have reportedly earmarked Everton No.1 Jordan Pickford as their ideal successor to Spanish goalkeeper David de Gea.
The Spain international’s long-term future at Old Trafford has been called into question for some time now, and he less than a year left to run on his deal.
Man United can trigger an extension in De Gea’s deal to retain his services until 2024, however, the Red Devo;s are reportedly yet to decide whether to keep the 31-year-old around.
A report from The Telegraph, the Red Devils are potentially willing to allow Spaniard to walk out of the door for nothing next season, which would save the team a hefty chunk in wages.
De Gea is believed to pocket £350,000 per week at Old Trafford, with only Cristiano Ronaldo earning more, however, club chiefs have been left dissatisfied with his early-season form.
Erik ten Hag is believed to be keen to instill a number one that is confident with the ball at his feet and able to play out from the back, and there have been questioning marks over De Gea’s competence in that department.
As a result, the report suggests that Everton keeper Pickford has emerged as a potential transfer target, as the England number one has demonstrated his proficiency in playing the sweeper-keeper role.
Pickford has spent the last five years at Goodison Park after securing a £25m move from Sunderland in 2017, and he has kept 55 clean sheets in 205 games for Everton in that time.
De Gea has kept 168 clean sheets in 495 appearances for the Red Devils in all competitions since being signed from Atletico Madrid back in 2011, and the 20-times English champions have also been rumoured with a move for current Rojiblancos No.1 Jan Oblak.
