Everton agree £30m deal for Pickford

Tuesday, 13 June, 2017 231comments  |  Jump to most recent

Sunderland have accepted a fee of £22m with add-ons from Everton for goalkeeper Jordan Pickford that could take the final deal to £30m, a record fee for an English goalkeeper.

Sky Sports claim that an opening bid was knocked back last week, but that the Blues have come back in with another of around £25m with £5m in add-ons which the Black Cats have accepted.

The Liverpool Echo report, however, that Everton's base bid of £22m is their first and that amount will be paid up front, with the final £8m dependent on appearance-related clauses which is also the fee breakdown that is being tweeted by Paul Joyce of The Times.

Pickford's star has risen rapidly and looks to have secured a move back to the Premier League from relegated Sunderland on the back of 32 games for the Wearsiders last season during which time he attracted plenty of attention from rival clubs.

The 23-year-old is currently in Poland with England at the U21s European Championships but is set to undergo a medical upon his return and complete a transfer that would see him become the most expensive goalkeeper in English history and the long-term replacement for Tim Howard who spent a decade at Everton before returning to the United States last year.

Meanwhile, Dutch media sources are reporting that Everton are getting closer to landing Davy Klaassen from Ajax. The 24-year-old midfielder has been linked with a big-money move to Goodison Park this month and De Telegraaf have tweeted that the deal is "as good as done."

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Reader Comments (231)

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Sam Hoare
1 Posted 13/06/2017 at 10:07:00
Pickford deal agreed or close to agreed according to BBC and others. Rising to 㿊m. Not totally convinced but he's a highly rated young keeper I suppose.

Butland cost ١m three years ago. Just saying...

James Watts
2 Posted 13/06/2017 at 10:09:33
Turn off TW and NewsNow for 5 mins and this happens! Really surprised we've got this one done, for that price anyway. Hope he's worth it. Welcome Mr Pickford (assuming you say yes, dont get a long term injury at the U21s and the news isn't full of it's normal shite).
James Morgan
3 Posted 13/06/2017 at 10:35:30
It's a big fee for Pickford but I suppose we are paying the English inflation as well as potential for the next 10-plus years.
Fran Mitchell
4 Posted 13/06/2017 at 10:39:23
So it seems Pickford deal is on. Well, one thing for sure is in him, Sandro and Klaassen (who all appear to be concrete deals the club, Koeman & Walsh are after) are all young players, so goes against those who criticised Koeman for signing only aged 27+.

I expect him to also go for a couple of more experienced names, which is a smart move. But an exciting couple of days it has been and the next week or so should be interesting.

Appears they know who they want and are going for them.

Damian Wilde
5 Posted 13/06/2017 at 10:41:45
Just broke on Sky, we've agreed a fee for Pickford.
David Booth
6 Posted 13/06/2017 at 10:49:21
Apparently we've agreed a fee for Pickford of 㿊m according to Sky Sports newsfeed in last hour...
Fran Mitchell
7 Posted 13/06/2017 at 10:50:34
Pickford fee is big, but I imagine It to be say £10-15 Million up front and the rest due when: we qualify for Champions League, win a Cup, he gets 50 Premier League games, gets first England Cap, gets 10 England caps etc. Should we pay the full fee, then he will have proven to be a success.

Hopefully him and Robles can each provide the other with competition. Young and good potential. If he is as good as they say, then either we have the No 1 sorted for 12-15 years.

Also, I know people love to criticise and castigate our players. And people especially love to prove their brilliance as football analysts by saying 'said he was shit' but let's get behind him, not castigate him after every little mistake.

I had my doubts about him – any keeper from relegated teams will cause doubts but, If he does sign, I will be there calling him the best keeper in England.

And those going on about Butland: the lad has been crocked for about a year. Is that worth the risk?

Martin Nicholls
8 Posted 13/06/2017 at 10:58:57
So it looks like we've spent before we sold. Any comments from those who repeatedly claim we are still a "sell before we spend" club?
Dan Nulty
9 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:02:24
Well this should shut a few people up about whether we have money to spend or not.

I hope I am wrong but this signing has a very much Richard Wright style outcome all over it. Never convinced about keepers that look good in relegated teams, they look good because they have so much work to do – à la Ben Foster.

Nice to get one over the line early though, hopefully a few more to come in soon...

Ed Fitzgerald
10 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:02:58
That's a crazy amount of money to pay for Pickford, don't know about the rest of you, but I'm not even convinced he's that good or certainly any better than we already have.
Sam Hoare
11 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:03:20
As Fran said, we are NOT PAYING 㿊m. We will probably pay 㾻m with the rest coming dependent on his success. If he is England No 1 in five years time and we are in the Champions League, then that additional money will have been well spent!

Personally he wouldn't have been my first pick but gotta back a player once he signs and it looks like it's going that way.

Brent Stephens
12 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:12:32
Martin: "So it looks like we've spent before we sold. Any comments from those who repeatedly claim we are still a "sell before we spend" club?"

If, of course, we do sign him before we sell. I can't understand how people can state things like "again, we will sell before we buy; typical Everton; nothing has changed, blah blah", with such certainty and without inside knowledge.

Steve Mink
13 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:16:58
㿊m for a goalie -– world's gone maaaaaaad

Ernie Baywood
14 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:17:13
I'm certainly convinced he's better than we have. His distribution is outstanding. He could be our keeper for years... that's well worth investing in.

Assuming this is really happening, I'm thrilled. Partly because we need a keeper, but mainly because as a statement of intent it's massive!

It's an early move, it's paying top dollar for the best young talent, it's... dare I say... a move that smacks of nil satis nisi optimum.

Martin Nicholls
15 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:18:13
Brent – I agree, but the report of an "agreed fee" from what is a more reliable source than most suggests that we're at least willing to spend before selling.
James Watts
16 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:20:46
Looks the the fee is £15 to 18M up front. Rest in add-ons. Let's hope he turns out to be a top keeper.

Nice to see we're buying before selling. Unless of course a fee has been agreed for Lukaku behind the scenes.

Martin Nicholls
17 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:21:38
Steve – it is a big fee for a goalkeeper but, if you read Bob Latchford's book, you'll see that in his opinion our failure to spend big on a goalkeeper back in the 70s cost us the League Championship. Having been there and seen it, I fully agree with him.
Andrew Ellams
18 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:22:30
Sky Sports News seem to think that a big chunk of this fee will be add-ons over a lengthy (5 years?) contract. You buy British, you pay a premium... but perhaps lessen the risk factor.
Brent Stephens
19 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:23:12
Martin, I was actually agreeing with you.
Ian Bennett
20 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:23:48
Don't count your chickens and all that. But Sandro ٣m, Klaassen 㿅m, Keane 㿅m and Pickford 㿊m are at least young and hungry.

䀁m on four players could easily be recouped on Barkley, Robles, Cleverley, Deulofeu, and Niasse. More departures to come with Lukaku, McCarthy and Funes Mori points to still more players coming in.

Stand by Goodison Exercise!!!

Tony Hill
21 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:24:35
Really encouraging news – first of all as to our intent in the market, and also because I think we will be acquiring an excellent goalkeeper; always the foundation of successful teams. Delighted.
Tim Kells
22 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:24:49
I can't see any downsides. We've identified who we want and gone and got him early doors. Fantastic that we're making signings now rather than waiting until the end of the window. It also sends a message to other prospective signings to come and join us. COYB
Martin Nicholls
23 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:25:45
Brent – my apologies. I thought you were – maybe didn't word my response as well as I might have done!
Brent Stephens
24 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:27:25
Nay problem, Martin.
Ernie Baywood
25 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:31:52
Tim... and maybe convinces one or two players that it might be worth hanging around?
Kevin Tully
26 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:33:28
Pickford may not work out, but if he does and he fulfills his potential then we may have our first decent 'keeper since Nigel Martyn, and he was only here for a couple of seasons before retirement.

Personally, I'm over the moon we are at least attempting to address this major weakness. This at least represents a marked change in our transfer dealings though, which we should be grateful for. It seems we have a plan!!!

Jim Knightley
27 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:37:36
Well, it is fair to say any fears about this being a continuation of the Kenwright Era are dead. This is now the era of spending well over the top for Premier League players.

On the plus side, if the early signs are anything to go by, we will have a lot of new players to be excited about next season.

Peter Laing
28 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:44:10
Brian,

The window doesn't officially open till 1 July but Clubs can obviously start to put deals in place now.

Good to see a goalkeeper recruited, Joel should be good back up in the Europa and Cup competitions. 㾾 million up front for Pickford is good business; he is young and has plenty of time to develop.

Tom Bowers
29 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:53:09
Got to say Pickford shows that Koeman did recognize that, to become great, you need to start with the number one position-goalie. The last time Everton were great they had Big Nev.

Pickford is young but showed he is good enough to become someone like Big Nev. The fee really doesn't matter as long as he is the right man.

Next is the central defender and with Funes still a doubt in many eyes then Keane looks like the guy.

James Stewart
30 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:58:15
If Pickford played a full season for us he will be way ahead of Butland. It's promising to know we have a very good goalkeeper for the next 10 years.
David Chait
31 Posted 13/06/2017 at 11:58:41
I have months ago got the the realization I don't need to care what we pay for players any longer. This is Moshiri's money and it's his ultimate decision to what can be considered value.

Is 㿊m nuts? Maybe... but what IS important is Everton identified who they wanted early and are making it happen. No issue to throw the cash at a player deemed to be what we need now. Whether he turns out great or gash is another issue completely.

This isn't a Sissoko moment where they had 2 months to get him and it was clear desperation. Hang on – we just spending the Sissoko money?

[Joke... happy chap for this sign of intent!]

Ian Jones
32 Posted 13/06/2017 at 12:03:54
This is off the BBC Sportsday feed, courtesy of a certain Alan Willis who writes

'Pickford's moving from Sunderland to Everton'. They moved my parents from Canterbury to Ashford. Excellent service all round.

Other moving companies are available.

:)

Laurie Hartley
33 Posted 13/06/2017 at 12:17:14
I hope we have spent 㿊m on him – as Ernie says, that would be a huge statement of intent. That'll rattle them.

Once upon a time we had a dour manager who spent a record 㿇,000 on an English goalkeeper. He went on to win 3 Division One titles and an FA Cup Winners medal. Could it be a lucky omen?????

Eddie Dunn
34 Posted 13/06/2017 at 12:19:05
It was difficult to judge Pickford being so busy in a poor defence. It is a big fee, but he is young and English.

I think the keeper is actually not the most pressing position for us to improve, but it is good to see some transfer activity.

At only 6ft 1" he isn't the tallest. I personally would have liked Forster, Foster or Butland, but I am ready to be wrong.

Richard Lyons
35 Posted 13/06/2017 at 12:21:37
Ian – made me laugh out loud...

I'm hoping we've signed the next Neville Southall!

Tony Ateman
36 Posted 13/06/2017 at 12:36:28
Echo saying 㾾m plus 㾸m add-ons over 5 years if certain things happen.

I only hope he is as good as the last time we broke transfer records to sign a keeper: Gordon West.

Michael Coffey
37 Posted 13/06/2017 at 12:48:09
The last time we broke a UK transfer record for a 'keeper was 㿼k for David Lawson in 1973 wasn't it? Ahem...
David Booth
38 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:12:06
Michael, I worry that your comparison may well prove to be a worthy one.

This is far, far, far too much money to spend on a 29-game keeper from a relegated club.

Could we not have tempted Stoke to sell Butland for the sort of money we are talking about here?

Potential's all well and good if we were investing up to, say, 㾶m. But 㿊m, however it's structured, is way too much.

For that, we ought to be buying one of the best keepers in Europe.

Matthew Williams
39 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:17:05
Proof that Mr Moshiri ain't fucking around; we've started business early which is a very good sign. A British Goalie who could be with us for many years to come... more to come in by the sounds of it.

I'm feeling positive, who knows this could be our season after all, we must try and end our long, painful trophy drought.

Simon Smith
40 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:18:56
Micheal,

Wasn't Simonsen a record for an English keeper when we signed him???

Dave Abrahams
41 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:19:06
So many posts on Pickford and none mention his first name, which is Jordan.

He had played in the top five leagues in England by the time he was 21, he has been on loan with quite a few clubs, Hartlepool, Carlisle, Burton Albion, Bradford City and Preston NE so he has had plenty of experience besides the 30-odd games he has played for Sunderland.

He has represented England at every age level from U16s to U21s and has been called up to the full England squad.

I haven't seen enough of him to know how good he is so will wait and see for myself, one question, is he left-handed, looks that way from photo's, Richard Wright was left-handed, just a warning.

Anyway, it looks like the start of plenty of transfer activity.

Jim Knightley
42 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:19:27
Re the Pickford fee. Whilst I think it is too much, hopefully some silly Champions League add-ons will make it less in reality, and this strange process of valuing goalies for less than outfield players shouldn't negate his clear potential.

Bar one or maybe two bad games (one after returning from an injury lay-off), he had a fantastic season – the question will be whether he can hold his concentration in matches where he is not being peppered with shots.

I think a lot of goalies look better when playing for weak teams because they make a lot of saves. We can't yet know whether he has the Joe Harts about him (silly errors in games without much to do).

Sam Hoare
43 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:34:52
The lad certainly is capable of top class distribution. Don't think Richard Wright ever did this:

Ernie Baywood
44 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:36:07
David Booth,

You wouldn't get one of the best keepers in Europe for £30M (or whatever down plus whatever add-ons).

I think people are underestimating Pickford. This lad is a seriously good 'keeper and has outstanding, like really outstanding, maybe elite level distribution. Think of those goals we conceded when our 'keepers put defenders in trouble. That's what we're avoiding here.

I reckon the first time you see him send a winger on his way to counter attack at pace, you'll be sold on him.

Soren Moyer
45 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:37:09
Welcome, to our special club, Jordan.
Kieran Kinsella
46 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:38:49
We can't go wrong with a young English keeper. Wright, Simonsen, Gerard. All future England Number Ones that came to Everton and led us to a golden era... or was that a shower?

Gordon Crawford
47 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:40:30
He is young keeper and should be given time if and when he signs. I just hope that when he makes mistakes the boo brigade don't crucify him.

But he hasn't signed yet, so it's all hypothetical. The RedShite are also looking at him too.

Michael Lynch
48 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:41:40
I can only repeat what has been said – a big gamble on a young goalie who, to my eyes, has looked only half-decent. He's the sort of player I'd want to see coming in as a back-up keeper to be honest; he's still got a lot of learning to do.
Martin Nicholls
49 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:49:16
Michael – if he was content to be a backup, he'd go to Arsenal to play second fiddle to Cech.
John Raftery
50 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:52:09
We needed to bring in a first-choice keeper. The fee, including add-on clauses, is certainly a statement of intent on the part of the club.

It is a lot to pay for potential but, if he knuckles down and works as hard as Neville Southall did, Jordan Pickford could prove to be the greatest signing of the Koeman era. The signing also puts paid to the theory that we will not spend money until Lukaku is sold.

Tony Ateman
51 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:54:57
Michael (#37); Simon (#40). I stand corrected. Thank you.

I think I must have been blinded by the talk about Pickford's distribution, which of course was a feature of Gordon West's game

Kieran Kinsella
52 Posted 13/06/2017 at 13:56:29
Sorry but I don't see this as a statement or the end of Kenwright's bungling. I see it as more of the same. We will overpay for a few players then "unexpectedly" recoup our money by selling Lukaku.
Ian Jones
53 Posted 13/06/2017 at 14:04:40
Who knows whether Jordan will be any good? Only time will tell but I'm pleased he's coming.

The only negative for me is the number of goals he has scored and his assists. If he can match or better Tim Howard's contribution, he will be fine.

Simon Bell
54 Posted 13/06/2017 at 14:05:55
I never understand our fans!

Last season, Man City splashed out 㾹.75M for a 33-year-old 'keeper who was rubbish and this year have spent 㿏M on a 23-year-old 'keeper. We've been linked to a 23-year-old English 'keeper for 㿊M (in installments) who could be great and might be rubbish!

There's no guarantees in the transfer market. I'm happy that a change is coming and I'm looking forward to see who's holding the shirt before the season starts.

Phil Bellis
55 Posted 13/06/2017 at 14:07:48
Re Gordon West's transfer...

"This [record] will never, ever be broken."

Blackpool Gazette, March 1962.

Shane Corcoran
56 Posted 13/06/2017 at 14:21:49
If we're spending £27 million on a 27-year-old winger, then the fee for Pickford doesn't bother me. I'd be slightly worried that, assuming we don't buy another 'keeper, we don't have a good experienced Number One to go straight in the team.

But he's good and if we don't get him now then someone else will (still might). So well done to all involved, I say.

Roberto Birquet
57 Posted 13/06/2017 at 14:26:43
This could be the start of an era-changing summer for us. Almost as exciting as that election, which I believe is also – finally (shoulda happened more quickly since the New Labour/Tory policy 2008 economic collapse) - era changing.

There is gonna be a lot of change in our team. If we want a bigger squad, and yet heaps are leaving: Kone, Niasse, Cleverley, probably Lukaku and Barkley, one of the centre-backs. Jeez, I reckon it could be almost one a week till September 1!!

Jim Harrison
58 Posted 13/06/2017 at 14:32:09
£30 million? I have read £18 million plus potential £12 millionm performance-based.

In my head, I had Butland's transfer to Stoke down as £12 million, but read tonight it was £3.5 million. But at the time of his transfer he was effectively 3rd choice there.

I also remember at the time thinking wow! That's way beyond our budget. Now we are looking at paying £18 million for a young keeper. Might not be fast enough for everyone's liking, but the times are a changing!

Mike Green
59 Posted 13/06/2017 at 14:33:48
Forget about the fee, a top keeper is as important as a top striker and it's a position that we are definitely in need of quality. Hopefully he's the real deal and can give us 10 good years – if so, the fee after those 10 years will look like peanuts. Sounds like great news to me.
Vineet Sood
60 Posted 13/06/2017 at 14:34:27
Love this Tweet: "㿊 million is the same as Spurs paid for Sissoko, and Pickford is a better midfielder"!
Joe Foster
61 Posted 13/06/2017 at 14:36:43
Good to see the first signing over the line and early as well.
James Stewart
62 Posted 13/06/2017 at 14:39:36
Good move, I didn't want Hart so am excited by the Pickford deal. We haven't had a top goalkeeper since Martyn. The fee is the market we are in. His stats are up there with the very best in the Premier League.
Jay Harris
63 Posted 13/06/2017 at 14:43:57
Pickford was not my first choice but at least addresses one of our most pressing problems and, with the likely arrival of Sandro and Klaassen, represents a good start to the transfer scene.

We just need Keane and/or Gibson, Sigurdsson, another two strikers and two full backs and we're set for a decent season.

John Smith
64 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:00:18
We'll probably pay £25m with add-ons to increase to £30m.
Michael Penley
65 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:05:39
Pickford was my first choice.
Steve Ferns
66 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:06:51
Excellent. This shows we mean business. We've paid slightly more to get him in early and see off the other big clubs who won't pay that for someone who wouldn't be first choice.

I hope we can talk Robles into staying and fighting for the Number One slot as that will be crucial to Pickford's development.

I must say, I have reservations about whether he justifies the price tag, but better analyzers of goalies than I rate him very highly, so I will trust their judgement.

Let's try and complete Sandro quickly and then we can focus on Klaassen. Before waiting to see what happens with Barkley and Lukaku. Or are these rush of transfers designed to soften the blow when Lukaku leaves?

Max Murphy
67 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:09:30
He may be a good keeper, but a fraction over 6 feet (1.85m) is not tall enough in today's game, where strikers can be anything from 6'-3" to 6'-6".

A goal-keeper these days needs to be 6'-3" plus. Sorry – not a good choice.

Mike Gaynes
68 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:11:57
One hell of a lot of money for a young keeper.

That should put to rest of anyone's doubts about the level of the club's commitment to cracking the top 4.

Jim Hourigan
69 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:12:05
Excellent keeper who may have been a bit rusty when he played against us at the end of the season.

I saw him play a couple of years ago and he was head and shoulders above other goalies of his age, and better than anything we had even then. I have no doubt he will serve us well for many a year and will become a future regular at international level.

Now we need a decent centre-back!!

Jeremy Jansen
70 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:15:23
I'm trying to stay positive on this deal but there are several other 'keepers out there who I'd have way more confidence in. Granted, I doubt their clubs want to let them go.

There was a sentiment in the rumor thread about it being easier to look like a good 'keeper in a crap side and I'm afraid I can't shake that for now. Hopefully his early performances (should he join us) with the club put that thought to rest.

Mike Gaynes
71 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:16:34
Jim (#11), yes, but specifically we need a centre-back who is dominant in the air.

Pickford's on the small side for a keeper and he's not commanding on high balls.

Ian Hollingworth
72 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:19:28
Great ambitious move by the club. Hope it comes off and certainly sends a message of intent.

More of the same please.

COYB

Steve Ferns
73 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:21:10
He's the same height as Big Nev, who was called 'big' well before people thought it referred to his weight.
Brian Hennessy
74 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:21:27
Can't say I have seen enough of him to know if this is good business or not.

Good thing is, it puts to bed talk of Hart joining us, which is great!

Terry White
75 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:22:06
When we signed Gordon West at 19 for £27,500 he was the "most expensive goalkeeper in the world". Not a bad investment then for us.
David Pearl
76 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:24:12
Hmm. I have my doubts, certainly after watching his game v Arsenal. But outstanding potential.

Personally I'd of gone for Hart, as he's England's current Number 1 and would he cheaper than both Pickford and Butland. Actually, I think Robles could be better than the lot of them.

Relief to see us actually start to make our move!!

Alan J Thompson
77 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:28:45
The end of May, wasn't it that Everton said they wouldn't overpay for Pickford? He has looked the goods for Sunderland but then they were relegated. Let's hope they are right.
Terry Smith
78 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:29:33
Whether you rate him or not, the signing shows we mean business. And we do have a good Number 2.

Gylfi will be next!!!

Dan Parker
79 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:31:15
A bid accepted, haven't agreed terms or a medical yet. Hope we don't get gazumped.
Steve Ferns
80 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:33:33
Who's going to gazump us, Dan?
Kiern Moran
81 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:35:20
Right, we need a new centre back now, some more creativity in midfield and a striker. And everyone else to sort their contract signing out. Job done.
Mike Gaynes
82 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:38:49
Alan J (#19), what qualifies as "overpaying" is a difficult thing to judge in this wildly inflating market. He could look like a bargain by Christmas.

One thing I'm not concerned about is Sunderland's relegation. I saw most of the goals they gave up this year, and only one was clearly Pickford's fault, very early in the season. For the number of shots he faced, he made amazingly few errors.

Mark Frere
83 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:39:03
I can't say it's a signing that gets the pulse racing. I don't quite know how good the lad is but it seems a lot of money for a goalie. All the 'keepers in the Premier League are capable of pulling off world class saves. We saw plenty from Robles and Stekelenburg last season.

I think what sets a top goalie apart from the rest is one that commands his six-yard area, comes out catches the ball to relieve pressure on their defence, good distribution of the ball and most importantly, makes less errors than most.

I just hope Pickford has most of the above attributes and hasn't been signed just for his shot-stopping ability that he showed last season.

Ed Curry
84 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:40:22
Pickford could be the backbone of the team for 10 years. Did you not watch Scotland v England? Hart was not good...
Ary Lima de Moraes
85 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:41:38
Think he is overpriced tbh. A bit of a gamble. But we have money to spend, so...

I just hope we can sign a decent centre-back and a playmaker (please Klaassen)!

Rob Dolby
86 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:47:47
The world has gone mad. England's 5th choice keeper.
Alan J Thompson
87 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:48:42
Mike (#24);

Not sure how much qualifies but the Tom Pepper Echo (see Rumour Mill) reported that Everton had offered £8M but would not overpay, stating Sunderland had priced him at £30M.

As you say, time will tell.

Craig Walker
88 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:53:43
I think this is a good bit of business, done early as well. People in the game seem to rave about this lad. I really hope he's more Southall or Martyn rather than a Gerrard or Wright.

We now need some imposing centre-halves and some creativity and goals.

Kristian Boyce
89 Posted 13/06/2017 at 15:59:49
I can see Robles leaving now this summer. He's only got 1 year left on his contract and I would imagine we would cash in on him. Probably get a few million for him with him heading back to Spain. Stekelenburg will probably be happy playing as backup.
Brian Wilkinson
90 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:01:05
If you look at the successful sides from the seventies onwards, one thing crops up over and over again: Shilton, Clemence, Southall, Schmeichel, Van der Saar, Seaman, De Gea, Cech and so on – get a top class goalkeeper and he can earn you points over the season.

Whether Pickford will fall into the above, only time will tell, but it's one of the key areas for me and about time we brought a goalkeeper in.

More than happy we have filled this area; now onto the rest of the rebuilding.

Ajay Gopal
91 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:01:50
If we sign-up:
Pickford
Keane
Klaassen
Sigurdsson
Sandro
+ 1 other world class striker

And let go of:
Stekelenburg or Robles (sadly, I think it will be Robles)
McCarthy (reluctantly)
Niasse
McGeady
Lukaku (reluctantly)
Barkley (reluctantly)

And promote:
Kenny (until Coleman returns)
Dowell
Holgate (as centre-back)
Galloway (as backup left-back to Baines)

And get back from injury:
Bolasie
Besic
Funes Mori

And continue the development of:
Davies
Lookman
Calvert-Lewin

And build on the experience of:
Schneiderlin
Gueye
Baines
Jagielka
Williams
Mirallas
Barry (farewell season)

And last chance saloon to:
Deulofeu,

(Whew!)

We could have a fun season ahead.

Tom Dodds
92 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:03:38
I am absolutely sure and in fact I would even bet on it that the Lukaku deal is done dusted and everyone connected has gone on their holls.

I reckon that Everton and Chelsea have a stone-walled agreement not to spill the deal before we have secured at least most of our prime targets, in fact, I reckon we even chipped on the price (and possibly even saved money in the process) to keep other clubs from being greedy when we roll up to buy!

Alexander Murphy
93 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:04:07
Kieran Moran, you've nailed it mate. Ajay Gopal, likewise. Great posts, great news.
Franny Porter
94 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:12:01
I couldn't give a toss how much he costs, everyone in this league is loaded now, you have to pay big bucks whether you want to or not. I'm just glad we aren't haggling over the odd fiver.
Christopher Wallace
95 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:12:55
Thank fuck we didn't get Joe Hart!

I think this will prove to be an excellent signing, and a bargain too. He is already quality, has has scope and attitude to be anything he wants.

Mackems saying they're gutted to lose him but, as it was inevitable he'd leave, they're glad he's going to Everton.

Iain Love
96 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:13:19
Pickford's stats show he's better than what we have, in fact there pretty good – best in the league at catching crosses, he's young English and only going to get better. The fact we now have a clear No 1 can only be of benefit to our defence.

He probably will make mistakes but all keepers do; it's the number of mistakes that makes the difference between the best and the rest. I hope we give him support when needed.

Eddie Dunn
97 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:14:58
Brent and Martin, on the "sell before we buy" subject. It really depends on the status of all deals currently on the go, incoming or outgoing. As we haven't got much of a clue about any of it, it is a pointless argument.

Even if we have all three of the current deals sewn up this week, we have no idea if the money earmarked for them has not been released due to a deal that has already been concluded bar the announcement.

Now I would be impressed if we buy lots of players and don't sell Lukaku or Barkley!

Sam Hoare
98 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:35:06
We've actually bought him for anywhere between 㾻m to 㿂m depending on who you believe. The rest will only be due if we (and him) enjoy various successes over the next 5 years such as winning cups and getting into the Champions League etc. Sounds a good enough deal to me.

Everyone likes to say we've spent 㿊m. The journalists, cause it makes a better headline. Sunderland, cause it excuses them losing their best player. Us, because it indicates ambition shown by the board.

Anyway. I'm warming to the whole thing after watching some clips. This one demonstrates his shot-stopping ability:

Mark Morrissey
99 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:36:32
A quality signing. England International since he was a boy. A fantastic start to this Summers dealing. I'm made up. Not many stand out for me and I'm also glad we didn't get Joe Hart.
Jay Harris
100 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:37:04
Pickford would not have been my first or second choice (Butland/Schmeichel) but is getting rave testimonials from the so called experts so lets hope they are right. In any case he is a major improvement on what we've got.

Apparently the Dutch press are reporting that EFC have £100m to spend and Koeman is driving the recruitment program.

Also they reckon Klaassen is definitely on we just have to agree the fee.

David Hallwood
101 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:43:26
Hot off the press, Ian (#32): Pickford to merge with Coleman for a megamove.

Must admit TWebbers are funny buggers, first they moan that we don't spend any money then it's too much money.

Not coming out of my pocket so I don't really give a flying one but I've always believed that you should break the bank for a goalkeeper as has already been pointed out no team has won anything without a brilliant 'keeper.

James Flynn
102 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:44:38
Well, hope this means genuine competition for our #1 position.

Robles did improve last season once he was exposed to professional coaching, after several seasons with the previous coaching staff. I'd prefer he and Pickford fight it out, rather than Robles leave and Stekelenburg stay. Stek's foot quickness makes it look like his boots are made of lead.

Tony Hill
103 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:44:41
Most comments from Sunderland fans on this news suggest that they think he's a fine keeper. I trust theirs as the best judgment.
David Ellis
104 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:52:05
My first reaction was – it's far too much money.

I've now seen a few clips on YouTube and saw comments from Sunderland fans and now I haven't been this excited about a new 'keeper since we bought Richard Wright which was exciting at the time, but in retrospect he had been great at Ipswich and just hadn't cut it at Arsenal. Pickford hopefully is still on the up. He's got Premier League experience and he could be very very good indeed

Agree with others that a solid 'keeper is essential and one of the big differences between the 70s and 80s was the match winning presence of Big Nev – you just knew he was hard to beat.

As for the money... well, I do care how we spend it because what we spend here will limit our spending elsewhere but, as we found last summer, it's better to move aggressively and early in the window to show intent and build momentum (ie, exactly what we failed to do last summer). If he turns out well, the fee will be forgotten.

A much better bet than Hart and much lower wage demands (I imagine).

David Chait
105 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:52:33
Reckon we got a little whisper from Moyes after he left saying he can become the England Number 1? No, you're right, probably not.

The big positive is he has age on his side, has not been injury plagued and can only get better.

Maybe he is one of the best in Europe potentially. Maybe he is England's De Gea. Maybe not at all. I don't care... we at least are trying to move forward!

James Hughes
106 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:52:50
Ajay, I am not normally a fan of player lists ,but that really makes you think it could be fun.

I have been impressed by Lookman since his arrival and he could be our new 'No 10' . He got stick on the Live Forum, but doesn't everyone, for being too small, which may be true. The other side is he has the skills we need and I really hope Ross stays.

Ray Said
107 Posted 13/06/2017 at 16:55:16
I think he will improve us by 10 points which is well worth the spend.
Colin Grierson
108 Posted 13/06/2017 at 17:02:11
For those unsure about the fee, we nearly spent £30 mill on Moussa Sissoko and Pickford's probably better in midfield than he is!
Brent Stephens
109 Posted 13/06/2017 at 17:22:29
Edie (#90) – point well made. I think our point was let's just wait and see before saying Everton (again) only spend once they sell.
Adam Carey
110 Posted 13/06/2017 at 17:24:01
I think we've signed a good keeper here. He stood out in what was a debacle of a defence last season at Sunderland. They would have been relegated much earlier without him and at his age he can only improve. He will be knocking on the door for the England Number 1 shirt soon.

As for the fee, we are now in that rarified atmosphere towards the top of Premier League where goalkeepers cost upwards of 㿀M, defenders and midfielders 㿊M+ and a decent striker 㿔M+.

Personally, I think it is mad but, when Man Utd were supposedly paying a goal bonus of 𧶀k for Ibrahimavic, this is the world we need to live in now if we want to compete with the best.

William Cartwright
111 Posted 13/06/2017 at 17:25:02
Ajay (#84) - Super analysis, really sets puts the task and potential in perspective.

If Rom were to stay, and the Real Ross Barkley, then I really sense where Koeman has been coming from, with goals all through the team and where we could be going. I would also look out for a resurgent Garbutt, (too much talent to hide for ever), Walsh (junior), and I am wondering who is going to be the unearthed gem which Walsh (senior) will come up with.

Also, Funes Mori for me is a conundrum. The Argies just love him. Captain material for them and has great natural ability on the left side of a back three. Would a class defender alongside him mean he could really step up in a blue shirt?

Which ever way you cut it, that looks one hell of a good squad with dare I say it 'top 4 potential...? COYB

Iain Johnston
112 Posted 13/06/2017 at 17:27:55
www.premierleague.com/players/4696/Joel-Robles/stats?se=-1

www.premierleague.com/players/4640/Jordan-Pickford/stats?se=-1

www.premierleague.com/players/4634/Jack-Butland/stats

Reading these I know which two keepers I'd want to see at Goodison, Pickford isn't one of them.

Gavin Johnson
113 Posted 13/06/2017 at 17:32:02
I never dreamed that we'd actually pay this fee for Pickford. I understand so much is on add-ons but it seems an obscene amount for a relatively inexperienced goalie. That said, the market is obscene and, if he becomes England No1 for the next 10 years, the fee will become irrelevant.

It looks like Pickford, Keane, Klaassen and Sandro are the players we want, and they're be additional signings, if and when Rom and Barkley go. I hope we get an update on Sandro soon. I don't know what the typical duration is for talks when a player joins a club but I would have hoped to have heard something by now. I think Sandro will be the biggest coup out of the four aforementioned players.

Daniel A Johnson
114 Posted 13/06/2017 at 17:37:53
Apart from the odd brain fart, I think Robles is a solid keeper and he's also still quite young.

I would rather they had put 㿊M towards a new centre-half or striker personally. A new keeper is nice but for me when you look at the squad it wouldn't be my first priority to spend money on.

Gavin Johnson
115 Posted 13/06/2017 at 17:38:32
Sam,

The initial reports I read were that we were paying 㿅m and the rest is add-ons. If you're saying the initial payment could be 㾻m, that sounds a lot better deal in case the lad becomes the next Steve Simonsen or Richard Wright. For the record, I think he'll be a much better keeper than those two expensive flops.

Ian Jones
116 Posted 13/06/2017 at 17:42:54
Ajay at #84. Good stuff. William at #104 has added a couple more. A few extra players to consider: Connolly, Browning and Pennington.
Jack Convery
117 Posted 13/06/2017 at 17:48:09
I wanted Butland when he went to Stoke so this in my eyes is an amazing amouNt to spend on a goalkeeper with potential because he is not the finished article by any means. His judgement coming for crosses needs to improve, though his distribution is good.

I hope his back is better given the times he bent over to pick the ball up out of the net last season. I acknowledge O'shea and Kone were rubbish in front of him.

Gutted its not Butland, the nearest thing I've ever to seen to the legend that is Neville Southall. Good luck to him, we need him to be a sucess given the dosh involved.

Adam Luszniak
118 Posted 13/06/2017 at 17:58:19
On the 'sell before we buy' discussion, there's a great podcast on The Blue Room which outlines the constraints in which Everton are working.

Essentially, the Premier League rules (separate to FFP) state that a club can only increase it's wage bill by ٥m a year plus whatever profit the club made from commercial revenue. It's basically designed to stop teams using their share of the TV money to hugely inflate their wage bills.

Commercial revenue includes player sales, and it is this which is relevant to Everton. We have limited profit from sponsorship merchandise etc compared to the big boys, but selling Ross Barkley would free up whatever fee we can get to be spent on wages.

So in this sense, we do have to 'sell before we buy', not because the money isn't there (TV Rights alone tell us it is) but that the Premier League regulations won't allow us to do what Man City did years ago.

https://audioboom.com/posts/5998710-everton-business-matters-episode-3

John Pierce
119 Posted 13/06/2017 at 18:03:41
Recurring word on this thread is 'fee'. Why in earth after all the complaining about no action or indeed quality of targets would we care what the fee is?

It's clear in the deal that there are add-ons. The money simply demonstrates we have it.

There might well be a high turnover of players in the next year or so and some badly burnt fingers along the way. But the market we are trying to break into has that level of risk attached to it.

As for the player himself, he has much to prove, a quality we require as hunger often begats money. My impression is he has good distribution, and is a reasonable getter of aerial balls. His shot-stopping is a touch inflated because of his team's lamentable season.

But he is better than what we have. And that's typical of the targets we look like landing: better than what we have and room to improve.

If we retain Rom and get someone truly huge then I might raise an eyebrow!

Anyone know if the lad has ever had a spell on the bins? Now that would be the stuff of dreams.

Christopher Wallace
120 Posted 13/06/2017 at 18:10:34
Iain,

Butland is great, but has had 3 major surgeries on his ankle in the last year or so.

Robles is a liability, regardless of what those stats suggest.

Pickford reminds me of Butland, in attitude and maturity. He had a real baptism of fire, and I really think he will push on to be top quality. His saves per game stats alone are way ahead of everyone else, with a lot of worldies.

There is a limited amount of top keepers out there, and Stoke don't need to sell.

Paul Thompson
121 Posted 13/06/2017 at 18:13:55
Goalie is the most important position in any team and, as everyone agrees, we haven't had one that's outstanding since Nigel Martyn.

To the naysayers and doubters – I predict that you'll be eating your words next season. Pickford has really impressed me this season and in behind a shockingly bad defence. He's young so his inexperience occasionally shows, but that will change.

Graham Coldron
122 Posted 13/06/2017 at 18:14:32
Just one small note of caution. Whilst it looks like a fee has been agreed, it is still possible that somebody else might start sniffing around (no doubt in a red shirt, or Spurs). Hope this does not happen, a la Dean Saunders in 1992 or, more recently, Sissoko – even though a bullet was dodged in that instance.
Christy Ring
123 Posted 13/06/2017 at 18:19:15
Pickford is a fine keeper, and there aren't many top keeper's available. Joe Hart is suspect and his wages are massive, and knowing the way Kenwright works, I'd say Sunderland are getting half the money upfront and the rest in add-ons.
Anto Byrne
124 Posted 13/06/2017 at 18:20:28
A keeper for £30 mil with good hands and excellent distribution qualities. No doubt they have had him under careful scrutiny.

I wonder if they have a couple of gems lined up that Walsh may have spotted. We need a big squad to compete in the Europa and possibly do a Man Utd so I don't think there will be a significant exodus of players. Could be wrong though.

What about that Swiss kid we loaned out?

Gavin Johnson
125 Posted 13/06/2017 at 18:26:52
Graham (#122). I think we've bagged him but I'm surprised Man City weren't sniffing around with Pickford's ball distribution. All we've heard since Guardiola arrived at City is that he wants a keeper who can pass a ball.
Dominic Tonge
126 Posted 13/06/2017 at 18:33:11
If this goes through, I will be impressed with the way we went about this bit of business. Went out, identified target, enquiry, paid money, got player, showed a bit of financial clout (a few Arsenal fans moaning they haven't gone and stumped up for him).

It seems like we didn't balk too much at the fee either – a fee that is somewhat lessened when you recall that they gave us ٥.5 million for Gibson and Oviedo. So realistically it's 㾻 million, those two and a load of add-ons which I'd imagine would see Jordan Pickford here for a long and successful spell should they be activated.

Good luck, Jordan, it's time we had another stand-out keeper. It's been a while since Big Nev or Nigel Martyn. Write a legacy, Jordan lad.

Dan Davies
127 Posted 13/06/2017 at 18:51:30
A nice tweet from Sunderland earlier saying they are happy he is going to a fantastic club. Nice touch.

I'm hoping we sign a dominant centre back too to help this boy out.

Very nearly burnt me chips reading this thread!

Welcome Jordan.

David Barks
128 Posted 13/06/2017 at 18:53:53
Don't know why anyone would be upset with this signing. A good move by the club and good start to the much needed overhaul of the squad.
Raymond Fox
129 Posted 13/06/2017 at 19:06:16
Is he better than Robles? I have my doubts.

He certainly got plenty of saving practice last season, also at picking the ball out of the net too. Not convinced, I have to say.

Michael Burke
130 Posted 13/06/2017 at 19:07:19
Outstanding news! Great piece of business. Fee is irrelevant, they have pretty much doubled in the last year with Sky money and factor in the 'Young English' premium; I think this could be a steal in the long run.

For those wanting Forster, speak to Southampton fans to see what they make of him.

David Pearl
131 Posted 13/06/2017 at 19:15:41
It's a good signing for now and the future. However it's a little bitter-sweet. Considering a few years ago we were saying we should build a team around Stones, Deulofeu, Barkley and Lukaku. It's looking likely that all of them will be gone.

It's a shame we are not adding to that core of young players with the likes of Pickford... but at least we still have Kenny and Davies.

Max Murphy
132 Posted 13/06/2017 at 19:23:49
Steve (#73),

Nev was a one off – and as I said in my post, forwards are much taller than they were in Big Nev's time, which is why I stated, a shade over 6 feet is not tall enough.

Dermot Byrne
133 Posted 13/06/2017 at 19:27:48
Right one? None of us really know. So much depends on the link with defenders. But as a statement of intent? Seems positive, along with other suggested players on TW in last few days.

I reckon some may expect "same old", others will see pot of gold end of rainbow. Probably closer to the pot of gold, I reckon, which may get us close or just in top 4.

Christopher Wallace
134 Posted 13/06/2017 at 19:33:30
Gavin (#125),

Citteh signed Ederson from Benfica for 㿏m – also 23 and the 2nd most expensive keeper ever.

Dean Cooper
135 Posted 13/06/2017 at 19:36:05
Read a Tweet today: "Koeman is having a medical at Everton for spending 㿊m on Jordan Pickford" – made me fucking laugh!

I agree that 'keeper isn't our priority, but given Sunderland's relegation – probably the one we needed to get over the line first.

I really liked Robles, but I think his three strikes were: Kane, Origi and that penalty. I would imagine he ends up back in Spain, with Stekelenburg staying. However, it is a World Cup year so maybe it will be him to make way..

Tony McNulty
136 Posted 13/06/2017 at 19:44:43
A top quality keeper – and this lad looks to have what it takes – will save an extra five to ten goals per season. A top quality stopper – the next priority – will do the same.

The old rule of ensuring top quality through the spine of the team almost always pays. This is a good move for us, I believe.

Paul Smith
137 Posted 13/06/2017 at 19:58:27
Think this is a good move from the club. Obviously highly rated and expensive, just like all clubs with intent – you've gotta pay it – pleasantly surprised.
Hugh Jenkins
138 Posted 13/06/2017 at 20:02:32
I've read a few fears on here that announcing this to the wide world is inviting us to be usurped by some other team – as has happened in the past, because the transfer window is not open or that Jordan Pickford is away on international duty, for another couple of weeks.

However, I think that we have a couple of far more astute businessmen involved with the club nowadays and will be extremely surprised if conditional contracts have not already been exchanged between both clubs and the player.

The conditions will be, amongst others:-

1. subject to a satisfactory medical examination;

2. subject to a successful registration.

The thing is, when people say that the transfer window doesn't open until July 1st, that relates to the ability of players being moved between one club and another to have their registrations for their new club ratified and the registration with their old club cancelled.

However, as I said above, I will be amazed if conditional contracts are not in place before an announcement such as today's is made.

It will only remain, after the 1st July for the already existing contracts to be ratified by EPL/UEFA/FIFA etc.

Andy Crooks
139 Posted 13/06/2017 at 20:09:08
I fear that something that is pure conjecture is becoming a given. The notion that goalkeepers can look good in relegated sides. Okay, they have more chances to make saves; however, surely, with a shite defence in front of them, they have plenty of opportunity to fuck up.

Jordan Pickford played behind a truly awful defence but, to me, he kept his confidence, his head up, and his composure. Saves are saves.

Tony Sullivan
140 Posted 13/06/2017 at 20:16:07
I'm just glad it's not Joe Hart.

Welcome to the People's Club, Jordan, long may you reign as our No 1 'keeper.

Jay Wood
141 Posted 13/06/2017 at 20:16:24
Given that Butland is a year older than Pickford, it may surprise many to learn they have both played pretty much an equal amount of games, both in the Premier League and their entire careers at their various clubs, as loanees or fully contracted.

Of course, Butland has lost a year to injury, and that may be telling. Do we know if he has – or ever will – fully recovered from that injury?

Here is Pickford's full career details:

Link

Here is Butland's:

Link

Although pretty much dead on 185cm - 6 feet tall - Pickford does seem 'short' for a keeper these days. Fully 10cm and more shorter than the likes of Butland and Hart.

Maybe he makes up for that with agility and speed. He certainly appears to have a good stretch and wing span when keeping.

Christopher Wallace
142 Posted 13/06/2017 at 20:26:56
Andy 139

Totally agree. A lot of young men, with no experience, would have crumbled under those circumstances. The spectre of relegation adds massive pressure, and he was left exposed by a piss-poor team.

He stood up to the pressure, and made a plethora of great saves – yet people are somehow putting this down as a negative!

It seems he was universally loved amongst the Mackems – could be a bargain. Noticed quite a few Gooners lamenting the fact that they didn't sign him as a replacement for Cech.

Jim Potter
143 Posted 13/06/2017 at 20:30:22
Top young keeper who could be our No 1 for over a decade. Apparently a good bloke as well.

Welcome Jordan.

Lewis Barclay
144 Posted 13/06/2017 at 20:35:10
Happy that we've (probably) signed him but it seems like a lot of money to spend on potential and England's 4th choice keeper.

Hopefully he'll be good from day one and win many trophies with us.

Brian Williams
145 Posted 13/06/2017 at 20:42:38
According to Jim White he's our first of SIX signings!!!
Damian Wilde
146 Posted 13/06/2017 at 20:44:46
We need a settled Number One, Robles & Stekelenburg are not that. Hopefully Jordan Pickford will be this. Pricey though! But I suppose it's the market.
Christopher Wallace
147 Posted 13/06/2017 at 20:46:07
Lewis 144

Are you saying that Joe Hart and Tom Heaton are better? No fucking chance!

Pickford is off to Euro 2017 to gain some big tournament experience, which will stand him in good stead when he inevitably grabs the No 1 jersey in the senior squad.


Peter Warren
148 Posted 13/06/2017 at 20:47:04
Agree with Andy and would say the converse is true – easier to look good in a great team than a shit team. I remember as a kid us signing some youngster from Arsenal who flattered to deceive but looked decent at the Gunners – Stephen Hughes I think his name was.
Colin Glassar
149 Posted 13/06/2017 at 20:51:19
I'm late to this but, from what I've seen of Pickford, and from what I've read about him, I think this could turn out to be quite a bargain.
Denis Richardson
150 Posted 13/06/2017 at 20:52:40
Wow – just saw this. Massive fee but he's only 23, will still improve and will potentially be our No 1 for the next 5-10 years. Given his age, if he keeps improving, I can't imagine we wouldn't get our money back in a few years' time anyway. On the face of it, it's a huge fee but it's also a decent investment.

Certainly a statement of intent from the club and hopefully solves the 'keeper conundrum for a few years. Also good he's English so no issues with communication.

If we can get Sandro and Klaassen in, that's 3 young very decent players added to the squad, all with top flight experience. Season already looking up.

Peter Holland
151 Posted 13/06/2017 at 20:55:00
Dammed if you do, dammed if you don't. Imagine if we get to the start of next season and we hadn't signed a 'keeper! Prices for UK-based players are over-inflated, yes but we are now willing to shell out for players who in the past we couldn't afford.

Give Koeman et al some credibility and a chance to prove himself. Don't judge players before they have had the opportunity to prove themselves. Who else would we attract with his potential given no Champions League?

Ciarán McGlone
152 Posted 13/06/2017 at 21:05:52
I'm just glad we didn't give them 㿊 mill for Kone.
Drew O'Neall
153 Posted 13/06/2017 at 21:12:13
Bonkers, barmy, crackers... Glad we are bombing the others out to get the players we want.

Certainly looks a confident and competitive young man – welcome to paradise, Jordan. Good luck.

Adam Scott
154 Posted 13/06/2017 at 21:27:36
It is a lot of money, no doubt. This is a guy though who has the potential to be our Number One for 10 years. Between 㿂M and 㿊M over that period is okay. Reports of 㾾M with add-ons seems fair enough to me.

It is a lot of money, and I did think the 㿊M was a hefty price a few weeks ago. If the people who are paying consider it good value, who am I to judge?

Brian Wilkinson
155 Posted 13/06/2017 at 21:29:29
I remember Everton holding off for a promising young England goalkeeper, we allowed Forest to nip in and sign Peter Shilton, a league Championship, two European cups and England's most capped goalkeeper later, he proved to be a shrewd signing.

Not for one minute am I putting Pickford in the same bracket of Shilton, but instead of dithering, we have gone all out for a number one goalkeeper, so if we get this over the line, time will tell if it was right or wrong, for me I think he will be a good signing.

Nigel Munford
156 Posted 13/06/2017 at 21:34:13
Just been watching Jordan Pickford on YouTube and something has struck me about modern goalkeepers, they don't try and capture the ball anymore. It's parries or body deflections, which can generally go anywhere. Apparently France's two goals have come this evening from Heaton having parried headers into the path of other opposition players.

Have I got this wrong? Or has it always been this way and I've only just noticed?

Nigel Munford
157 Posted 13/06/2017 at 21:44:46
Denis @#150 regarding "no communication problems", that would depend on who we have as a back four I guess.
Gareth Clark
158 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:02:36
The best distribution I've ever seen from a keeper!
Peter Mills
159 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:03:01
Brian (#155), Shilton would have been a magnificent signing for us. He was not faultless early in his career, once conceding 7 at Goodison, but he dug in and Brian Clough saw his ability. I've no idea whether Pickford can match him, but Sunderland fans seem to rate him.

Nigel (#156), Good point. I thought the same watching Heaton tonight, two decent stops but they failed to put the ball out of harm's way. Great goalkeepers would be unhappy with themselves about that.

Tony Dove
160 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:10:34
At that price, I hope it works out well but I have my doubts. I am worried that up to now he has just been a shot-stopper at Sunderland, obviously with plenty of practice. I also think he may be the shortest keeper in the Premier League.

A lot of Lukaku's eggs are going into that basket.

Ian Riley
161 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:12:57
Great news! He's young and will get better. Had a great season with a poor defence. He will have better defenders in front of him and less to do.

Give the lad a chance. A big move by the club and shows our intention.

Christopher Wallace
162 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:15:55
Nigel (#156),

Pickford seems to delay committing to saves that split-second later than most, once he sees where the shot is actually going (rather than guessing earlier). This requires outstanding reflexes, (which is one of his strengths) and allows him to pull of these world class saves.

I'm far from an expert on goalkeeping, and may be talking shite here. He just seems to stay standing that little bit longer than most. Top strikers will try to commit the keeper, thus allowing for an easier finish.

i Can't wait to see him in action for us.

Anthony Burke
163 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:23:27
I wish him all the best. I watched YouTube clips as I'm not sure he pulled off some world class saves however this was on YouTube.

He was dodgy against us at Goodison but I'm willing to give the guy a chance. Welcome aboard!!!

Andy Smith
164 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:25:33
http://salutsunderland.com/2017/06/jordan-pickford-formerly-one-of-our-own-everton-buying-an-absolute-gem/

An interesting perspective.

Mike Green
165 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:27:52
Correct, Nigel (#156), my thoughts entirely.
Bill Watson
166 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:31:23
It looks like we may be signing the best English goalkeeping prospect for years!

As long as they're not charging me extra to get in, I don't care how much he costs.

Kunal Desai
167 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:33:30
It feels nice to be pampered as supporters rather than shopping in Lidls or Poundland.

I wonder if the six players Jim white means are:

Pickford
Klaasen
Sigurdsson
Sandro
Keane
Rooney

Christopher Wallace
168 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:34:06
Nice one, Andy Smith, great piece.

Also refers to Moyes as "the epitome of dour Caledonia"! Lmao

Len Hawkins
169 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:43:02
Max (#67 & #132),

Two options to him being 2" too short to be any good: longer studs or horse shit in his boots.

Dan Davies
170 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:46:19
Kunal @ 167, nothing wrong with Lidl or Poundland!

I know what you mean though.

Mark Boulle
171 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:52:41
I canvassed 3 Sunderland fans I know today. All agreed that, especially if it's £24M plus add-ons as reported, we are getting a bargain for a player who they all thought will be England's No 1 within the year.

I'd like to think they're right. Hart seems to be on a downward spiral, Heaton is unlikely to stake a permanent claim now at 31. His only serious competition is Butland.

James Marshall
172 Posted 13/06/2017 at 22:53:26
They could pay 𧷤m for all I care – it ain't my money!

I don't get why people complain about high fees, and then complain about low fees... and then complain about us not signing the right players... then complain about the colour of the sky.

Jay Griffiths
173 Posted 13/06/2017 at 23:12:40
Hope we do end up paying the £30 million. For this to happen then certain requisites have been met. This is all related to success. His fee is thus relative.

The other players we're coveting all represent a powerful spine. No complaints from me.

Martyn Thickitt
174 Posted 13/06/2017 at 23:18:06
On the BBC Sport website, Peter Shilton is saying he is well worth the money – and he should know.
Gary Edwards
175 Posted 13/06/2017 at 23:22:14
Come 31 August, we'll know if we paid the 'going rate' or not. Initially thoughts are at £22m not a great deal but not bad either; at £30m we've overpaid. The pleasant surprise is that we're getting business done early – good signs.
Dennis Ng
176 Posted 13/06/2017 at 23:45:50
I can't believe the price tag but ,if this level of spending becomes the norm for the future of the club, I guess it is good. £15m up front, if true, sounds reasonable, I guess and £30m with add-ons at this point in time for Pickford is very expensive. Can't we get some German kid for £5-10m? Perhaps as a backup to Pickford?
Steve Carter
177 Posted 14/06/2017 at 00:10:23
Fark! He'd better be good.
Max Murphy
178 Posted 14/06/2017 at 00:17:10
Len (#169), after forking out £30million I don't think we can afford the studs or the horse-shit.

But from where you're coming from, there seems to be a plentiful supply of bull-shit.

Jim Hardin
179 Posted 14/06/2017 at 00:29:06
Great signing. Besides having quick reflexes, Pickford was excellent in three key facets. His angles are almost always correct. Second, his saves are away from danger because he looks to put the ball into safe areas before it comes. Contact with the ball is only part of the save and usually the easiest part. Directing the ball with the parry is harder.

The final thing he does well is not spill the ball. In this he reminds me of Howard who, for all of his imagined faults and weaknesses, as well as his few real ones, rarely spilled a ball into the opposing players' paths.

Pickford will not come for every cross, so I can just imagine the experts who think that is the end all and be all of the position slagging him. I hope Joel Robles likes riding the bench next season.

Paul Birmingham
180 Posted 14/06/2017 at 00:41:06
Taking this as an impact buy plus. Long-term keeper planning policy. £30m at this age and project at least 15 years for a 'keeper then, it could be a major win.

I reckon so, and a big hole plugged? Welcome to Everton!

Andrew Presly
181 Posted 14/06/2017 at 00:56:25
I've got issues with us agreeing deals "in principle" with a player going to a major tournament.

Unprofessional. Should have been signed already.

Brian Wilkinson
182 Posted 14/06/2017 at 01:00:39
Tim Cahill was 5ft-10in, did not see many bigger centre-halves outjumping him, so I would not be to worried about his height which is the same height Neville Southall was.
Laurie Hartley
183 Posted 14/06/2017 at 01:35:34
I must admit I like the sound of a 6'-7" goalkeeper when we were linked with Kallinic but as Andy Crooks says above "a save is a save".

So I did a bit of research . Peter Shilton, Ray Clemence (I know) and perhaps the best goalkeeper I have ever seen, Gordon Banks, we're all the same height or shorter than our new goalie. So if your good enough your big enough (especially if you have got a big heart).

I hope Jordan Pickford turns out as good as my one of those three.

Derek Thomas
184 Posted 14/06/2017 at 01:49:04
Hart is 30, Heaton 31, Butland isn't going anywhere, seems like Walsh applied his 'Moneyball formula' and got the next best available option who has Premier League experience. I don't hear many Mackems laughing up their sleeves on how the mugged us...quite the opposite.

Fees have changed in the last 12 months or so, which makes £30M, including add-ons, the new £15M, including add-ons.

For those who remember the change-over from the old money, we had 'new pence' for a bit, then we all got used to it... so get used to it.

Si Cooper
185 Posted 14/06/2017 at 02:02:15
Haven't seen enough of him to have a definite opinion of his ability / relative worth. From the highlight reels, he looks agile and quick and capable of taking the ball out of the air with assurance.

Obviously unlikely to dominate a crowded 6-yard box, but if he has composure / judgement to go along with his touted distribution ability, then the positives should outweigh the negative.

Steve Ferns
186 Posted 14/06/2017 at 03:22:54
So we are to spend 𧵎m over the next few weeks, if the papers are to be believed. Now, we should be able to recoup at least half of that from the sale of Lukaku, and at least 䀆m if the Wavertree Diamond leaves as well.

But don't worry about FFP. I read the following paragraph with interest, in The Independant, regarding AC Milan and their spending spree (no mention of Deulofeu so it looks like he's returning):

"Another concession from UEFA regards the relaxation of FFP two years ago, which allows clubs a period of accelerated spending as long as they present an affordable business plan. Last week, it emerged UEFA want clarification from Milan on a couple of points by October before signing off on it. Rather than slam their foot on the brakes, Milan are pushing ahead regardless, confident that their projections are right and not unrealistic. And besides, they have to make the Champions League next year. Serious questions remain but for now at least, enthusiasm is building and with it the hope that Milan are back."

So let Moshiri do the business plan (not Kenwright or his mate) and we should be able to spend whatever we want.

Peter Morris
187 Posted 14/06/2017 at 04:16:39
Peter Shilton has commented on BBC that the fee isn't too big, and that goalkeepers are undervalued in our game, relative to outfield players. I must say I agree with him on that, and the two on our books are not up to it.

The money is irrelevant really. What's the point of all this extra cash coming into the game unless it is invested on playing staff?

The major risk with this, is that the lad still has to be categorised as 'unproven'. I think he only broke into the Sunderland side late the season before the one that's just ended. I also think he's a bit on the short side for a modern goalkeeper.

On the flip side, he appears immensely agile and quick around the 6-yard box, and his ground distribution is a very strong point.

On balance, certainly one of the key positions we needed to fill, and one of the best available to fill it. Tick, move on.

Jamie Sweet
188 Posted 14/06/2017 at 05:06:30
What I gather from a lot of these comments is that, if the lad had another couple of inches on him, most of you would be happy.

You lot sound like my wife!

David Hayes
189 Posted 14/06/2017 at 05:35:49
Agreed a fee! doesn't anyone on here know what that means, I Know it doesn't mean, "Over the line", or "Great signing" and also "Statement of intent" whatever that is. Does any body really think that clubs, and or players operate on Statements of Intent.

I'd love this one to happen... But it hasn't yet.

James Watts
190 Posted 14/06/2017 at 05:59:16
Agreed, David. But it's rare once a fee has been agreed that a player doesn't join. Especially if no-one else has matched our bid. There is still time for 'Arry to swipe him for Birmingham, I suppose.

And it is Everton so it wouldn't totally surprise me if it all fell apart or we get the "fee hasn't been agreed yet so the reports are false" statement sometime later today.

Philip Jeffries
191 Posted 14/06/2017 at 06:20:29
Just spotted this classic on a Sunderland website...

£30m for Jordan Pickford doesn't seem so bad when you remember it's what Spurs paid for Moussa Sissoko, and Pickford is a better midfielder.

Philip Yensen
192 Posted 14/06/2017 at 07:44:58
Reminds me of kids football when a team win 8-0 or 14-0 or by some big score. They give Man of the Match to the goalie, because he's been busy. Jury out on this one.
Denver Daniels
193 Posted 14/06/2017 at 08:10:10
As an aside, I see Monchi, who was reportedly set to become our Director of Football before we opted for Steve Walsh, is now the DoF at AS Roma.

I wonder if we'd have been able to attract some better players with him at the club?

Paul A Smith
194 Posted 14/06/2017 at 08:11:49
Martin (#8). It's all well and good spending now and I agree its great to be seeing this before a sale. Lets not pretend Lukaku is staying though mate. I will celebrate turning that corner when we still spend all the Lukaku money as well as this spree.

On Pickford, I haven't seen much of him and my only worry is that he is a stats signing? We seem mad on stats since Walsh came in, I just hope there is a shrewdness in there too.

I may be wrong here but I don't remember hearing much fuss over him apart from us being linked with him. Sunderland were battered with shot after shot and he was bound to make more saves than most keepers.

He looks agile which is important and although I don't know much about him I am looking forward to see him play for us. The money I couldn't give a toss about. It doesn't affect my savings... and all players, especially young are a big rip off.

Alan McGuffog
195 Posted 14/06/2017 at 08:35:43
Seemingly he is rather short. I gather only 6' 1". However he has got DEAD long arms. So silverware is assured.
Michael Burke
196 Posted 14/06/2017 at 08:48:09
Paul (#194), if it were a stats-only signing he wouldn't be coming: too short, conceded too many goals etc.
Paul A Smith
197 Posted 14/06/2017 at 08:55:24
I am not worried about Pickford's height. I heard Steve Walsh is adding a senior growth development officer to his ever-growing list of staff.
Rob Young
198 Posted 14/06/2017 at 09:03:05
Paul @194,

maybe you worry he might be a 'stats' signing because you focus on stats being mentioned? Could it not be that Walsh actually watched the lad play?

Stats just happen to back up what he saw, for all we know Walsh never even looked at the stats.

I never checked Pickford's stats because I couldn't care much less about stats, I know what I saw whenever I watched Sunderland play and I was impresses.

Pickford has been getting rave reviews in the media virtually the whole season - anyone who followed the Premier League (even if only though the MotD highlights) will have been aware of him.

Christopher Wallace
199 Posted 14/06/2017 at 09:08:44
Paul (#194)

Southall: I think if we sign Pickford we have a bargain What price saving 12 points a season? Potential to go all the way to world level.

Shilton: For someone like Jordan, who is young and has great potential, it does not seem a great fee. In the big scheme of things it is not a lot of money, considering how important the goalkeeping position is.

It is second to a striker who scores 20 goals a season. You cannot have a really good side without a good goalkeeper.


These boys know a thing or two about 'keeping – both reckon it's a bargain.

Philip Jeffries
200 Posted 14/06/2017 at 09:21:34
The kid is the best available and we have moved quickly with the likes of Arsenal and Liverpool sniffing around. Moshiri is in charge of the club now, so stop thinking that we are checking in between the cushions of the sofa for transfer funds!

Financial 'Unfair' Play restricts us to spending what revenue we bring in, so we have been quite clever with this signing. It means we have technically spent £18m, not the full £30m at this stage. Just means it takes off future funds when fee stages are activated.

Shilton, Southall and pretty much anyone else with any worthwhile opinion has said 'great signing'. Welcome to Goodison Park, Jordan, and you may just earn your wages, young man, after looking at the first 5 fixtures of the new season!

Gordon Crawford
201 Posted 14/06/2017 at 09:30:28
If we sign him, I'm sure he will do great for us. Two top keepers rate him highly, so that will do me.
Paul A Smith
202 Posted 14/06/2017 at 09:52:37
Michael (#196), no offence mate but we signed Gueye (on stats) who had just been relegated and is almost beyond too small. I'm not saying he can't be a great keeper I just hope they have done all the homework. Hopefully Walsh is what they say he is and has eyes for a superstar.

Christopher (#199), Shilton doesn't even acknowledge he knows anything about Pickford apart from saying he is 23 with Potential. That couldn't have been more obvious really.

I don't know his stats I just know he got battered with shots and came out well. Tom Heaton did the same at Old Trafford and got rave reviews but nobody wants him.

I will be watching him like every signing with an open mind until I know his game.

Jonathan Tasker
203 Posted 14/06/2017 at 11:52:47
Erm, you do all appreciate that we haven't actually signed Pickford, don't you?

Kenwright and Elstone want you to think that because it buys them some time but we haven't actually signed him and I'm fully expecting another club to sign the player.

Ernie Baywood
204 Posted 14/06/2017 at 11:59:49
I'll respect Shilton's view on whether Pickford's going to be a good keeper. Not sure on whether I'd trust him to advise whether £30M is an appropriate amount to gamble on him.
Gary Edwards
205 Posted 14/06/2017 at 12:59:20
Jonathon (#203) – wise words. Back to reality.
Gordon Crawford
206 Posted 14/06/2017 at 13:16:26
Jonathan (#203), I've been saying the same too. You're right that he isn't our player and another club could come in at the 11th hour.

Real are keeping close tabs on De Gea, so what's to stop Man Utd from making a bid? I know the dark lords across the park rate him highly too and that they have been linked; though I believe they want Hart.

If he signs, then I'll be saying "Welcome" and all that.

Michael Burke
207 Posted 14/06/2017 at 13:18:35
Paul (#202), I'm staggered that people think that scouts etc just look at statistical data when making a decision. If there is no human element to the signing when millions are being spent on individuals then I need to change job and get myself into football because that is just plain lazy.

They need to know the type of personality, will it fit into the culture of the club. Also (contradicting myself) watch Moneyball if you want to see the power of stats alone and their impact in sport. They don't lie over time!

Mike Berry
208 Posted 14/06/2017 at 13:35:19
Top goal keepers are very hard to find, and hopefully we have stolen a march here.
Chris Gallagher
209 Posted 14/06/2017 at 14:01:22
Er... slightly overloaded. Sky reporting Walsh is in Milan talking about 6 players???

Carlos Bacca, M'Baye Niang and Gianluca Lapadula from AC and Ever Banega, Marcelo Brozovic and Jeison Murillo from Inter, they're reporting.

Bloody hell.

Steve Ferns
211 Posted 14/06/2017 at 14:20:03
There was an clear assessment of Pickford late in the season by a bigish name. I forgot who, I want to say Tim Flowers but I'm certain it's not him.

Anyway, it was a glowing report and they were impressed with him and thought that he could make a step up.

Meanwhile, the similarly priced, and much older, Joe Hart was criticised for deficiencies in his game. Apparently injury or a mental issue has led to Hart preferring to dive one way, meaning he lines up badly to try to force the shot to that side; if they go to his defective side, he cannot get down for the low saves to make what should be a routine save.

Whether this is gash or not, I don't know.

Chris Williams
212 Posted 14/06/2017 at 14:44:07
Chris (#209),

Some reports are saying he's meeting up with Juventus too. Who knows for sure but the encouraging thing for me is that Walsh seems very visible and seems to be leading the recruitment process hopefully.

He met Sandro on Sunday too.

Brent Stephens
213 Posted 14/06/2017 at 14:46:04
Jonathan (#213),

"Kenwright and Elstone want you to think that because it buys them some time but we haven't actually signed him."

Oh to be an insider!

Chris Williams
214 Posted 14/06/2017 at 15:15:49
Reports saying he's having a medical tonight. Let life unfold.
Paul A Smith
215 Posted 14/06/2017 at 15:20:37
Michael (#207) – I said I hope he isn't a stats signing. I am staggered people believe that isn't possible when loads of coaches in the past have admitted signing players without looking at them. That doesn't mean I believe we operate like that for every player but all this background check stuff is jargon.

Who checked Schneiderlin's injury record? He missed tons of games at Man Utd through injury and has already missed near half his possible games here.

So, without sounding arrogant, mate, I don't fall for the expert theory. Most of it is friendly fire to get the giddy fans excited and full of belief.

Who signed Stekelenburg? A background check on him told me he couldn't hack the Premier League and was shipped off to Fulham, to get dropped there.

"That one was Koeman, no it was Walsh." – well, one of them is stupid then aren't they?

See my point, mate ? Anyone can get one wrong.

Andrew Ellams
216 Posted 14/06/2017 at 15:47:00
6 players from the 2 Milan clubs, Pickford, Keane, Martin, Klaassen, Sigurdsson and Sandro. I'm all for a big change in personnel this summer but this would put us on potentially shaky ground trying to get this many new faces to gel.
Sam Hoare
217 Posted 14/06/2017 at 15:58:04
Andrew, I don't think we'll be taking all 6 players from Milan! Just keeping options open, right. I also heard that Walsh was meeting reps from Napoli and Fiorentina. Duvan Zapata was apparently being discussed

I imagine:

Pickford
Keane, Murillo, Smalling
Brozovic, Banega
Sigurdsson, Klaasen, Rooney
Sandro, Niang, Lapadula, Traore
Bacca, Zapata, Batshuayi

Sure there are plenty of others as well. From that list, I'd probably opt for Pickford, Smalling, Banega, Sigurdsson, Sandro and Batshuayi.

Andrew Ellams
218 Posted 14/06/2017 at 16:13:49
Sam, there are a lot of strikers on that list so I'm sure you're right. The Smalling rumours are a bit disturbing though.
James Morgan
219 Posted 14/06/2017 at 16:18:09
These are very exciting times indeed. My console manager mind is going in to overdrive. My first 11 based on these players we are strongly linked to:

Pickford
Coleman Keane Smalling Baines
Schneiderlin Gueye Banega
Klaassen
Bacca Sandro

Then imagine Niang, Davies, Williams, Robles, Mirallas, Calvert-Lewin, Funes Mori all on the bench.

That's not even including McCarthy, Besic, Jagielka, Martina, Kenny, Holgate, Barry, Bolasie, Lookman and the other Milan based players we are linked with.

Sorry guys, I'm getting a wee bit ahead of myself but it seems we mean business this time.

Ray Roche
220 Posted 14/06/2017 at 16:28:40
Sam (#217),

We'd piss the League with that lot... playing 16 players..

David Barks
221 Posted 14/06/2017 at 16:31:53
Guys, the scout came out and said point blank that it would be a "one or the other" case when it comes to the players mentioned. The story is in the Echo if you want to see it for yourself. They're looking at a list of players but would be picking one.
Sam Hoare
222 Posted 14/06/2017 at 16:36:41
Andrew, I really like Smalling actually. He's not often had a good run at Man Utd and the only season he did (under Van Gaal) he was their Player of the Season.

He's big, strong, fast and can read the game pretty well. He's been around for a while but at 27 is just coming to his peak.

I reckon if he was our first choice centre-back he'd do a pretty good job. Maybe Keane would make more sense but I do think Smalling on form is one of the better centre-backs in the country, though admittedly he's been patchy when in and out of the team at Man Utd.

Andrew Ellams
223 Posted 14/06/2017 at 16:41:18
To be honest, Sam, I see him more for England than Man Utd and he always seems like an accident waiting to happen. Him and Stones are a scary pair together!
Sam Hoare
224 Posted 14/06/2017 at 16:49:19
Most players in an England shirt look like an accident waiting to happen, sadly!

But I know what you mean. He can look hesitant. Rumours seem to point more towards Keane anyway but I guess we'll see...

Andrew Ellams
225 Posted 14/06/2017 at 16:51:13
I did think we would sign two central defenders this summer to replace Jagielka and Funes Mori.
Sam Hoare
226 Posted 14/06/2017 at 16:56:56
Maybe, Andrew.

Although, given the other positions needed to be filled, might Ronald Koeman decide to give Jags one more season or Funes Mori one more chance, with the likes of Holgate, Galloway, Browning and Pennington able to fill in potentially?

Gordon Crawford
227 Posted 14/06/2017 at 17:33:05
Chris (214) Yeah I heard Walsh is having a medical too, for Milan. :) They are offering us £100 plus add on's.
Brian Wilkinson
228 Posted 14/06/2017 at 22:18:16
First Peter Shilton, now Neville Southall saying positive things about Pickford, that will do for me, get the guy signed when he returns from the under 21s.

Big Nev says it as it is and if we were overpaying, or he wasn't good enough, you can Guarentee Nev would say so, shame we cannot give big Nev some role at Goodison.

Drew O'Neall
229 Posted 14/06/2017 at 22:22:17
Dear God, if you make Ever Banega play for Everton, I swear I won't ever ask you for another thing...
Trevor Lynes
230 Posted 14/06/2017 at 22:34:04
I am not keen on signing Bacca as he is now 30 years old and like Rooney is past his best.That kid Jota from Brentford looks a decent prospect for ٥ million and I just wish we could acquire a real crowd pleasing play maker to get our attack firing. Every top team has a play maker and that is a huge difference between top six and also ran in the Premier League.We need a ball player who has great awareness plus a few goals to boot.
Paul Thompson
231 Posted 14/06/2017 at 22:57:21
To get back to Pickford, Dominic King has reportedly tweeted that he has had a medical out in Poland.
Alexander Murphy
232 Posted 14/06/2017 at 23:25:10
Erm Jonathan 203.
Yes, thank you. I do realise that.

You do realise that no-one else has signed him either?

But thanks for the Moyesian reminder that despite it being quite sunny today that it could theoretically piss down until the end of the forthcoming season.

Let's stop being the Eyeores of the Premier League, can we?

Being bloody miserable hasn't inspired us to any silverware at first team level since 1995, so maybe a shift in thinking is overdue.

Perhaps these players do not sign for us because we display an attitude that is utterly, abjectly miserable?

Other clubs (tiny ones that couldn't fill Billy's Boyz Pen) at least enjoy having a go.


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