According to a report by the Daily Star, Manchester United is making plans to make a bid of £45 million for Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
This move comes as a result of the ongoing contract dispute with their current goalkeeper, David de Gea. Despite engaging in negotiations with De Gea for a new contract, United has been unsuccessful in persuading him to extend his stay beyond June.
The Spaniard is currently earning £375,000 per week and has rejected a reduced salary offer of £200,000 in order to sign a new contract with the club.
In light of this situation, the Red Devils are reportedly considering a move for Pickford who may be available for transfer due to Everton’s financial difficulties.
Although the English keeper recently signed a long-term contract extension in February, he could be sold for approximately £45 million during the current transfer window.
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Man United holds an advantage over Tottenham Hotspur in terms of Champions League football and could potentially offer Pickford double his current weekly wages of £100,000.
However, it is suggested that the Everton star would not be an improvement over De Gea in the upcoming season. Pickford has been a regular starter for Everton but has not been convincing in certain aspects.
He tends to come off his line frequently, but it has not been effective, as he made two errors leading to goals and conceded a penalty last season.
While Pickford excels in playing long balls, his overall distribution and passing accuracy have been poor, with a completion rate of just 52% in the previous season.
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United should consider alternative options in the transfer market like Andre Onana from Inter Milan as a potential choice.
Onana, who is reportedly open to joining Man United, could be acquired for a lower fee than Pickford. The Cameroonian keeper would integrate well into the team given his four-year experience under manager Erik ten Hag at Ajax.
