‘Next big-name to go’: Chelsea and Spurs most likely to sign £30m Premier League player if he leaves – journalist

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Dean Jones has claimed that Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are the favourite candidates to land Jordan Pickford if he departs Everton.

Writing for GiveMeSport, Jones stated that the two London rivals, plus potentially Manchester United, are the ‘three clubs’ to look out for if Pickford leaves Goodison Park.

The goalkeeper’s position on Merseyside has never really been put up for debate until earlier this season.

He has been a staple in between the sticks since he was unwrapped as a Toffee for £30m in 2017.

Following that summer move from Sunderland, the England international started 120 consecutive Premier League games before being rested by Carlo Ancelotti in 2020.

Pickford was rapidly restored to the line up to play another 120 matches, plus a few more, with his role as the team’s number one never in doubt.

But 2022/23 has delivered a new wave of problems that could dictate the ‘keeper’s role at Everton.

For one, Frank Lampard’s side are dangling dangerously close to demotion from the top division, meaning his top players might want to hop ship before the vessel sinks.

Jordan Pickford a pick for Chelsea

If Lampard loses the fight for league survival, there will undoubtedly be a line of suitors ready to snap up his wantaway stars.

Which, according to Jones, might include Chelsea and Spurs in queue for Pickford.

“Everton are hovering above the relegation zone and if they do not improve in the second half of the season there could be three teams looking to take advantage,” said the transfer insider.

“Richarlison left Everton last summer and the expectation is that Pickford could be the next big-name to go.

“Tottenham, Chelsea and – maybe – Manchester United are the three clubs to look out for if that happens. Pickford is England’s No.1 and will not want to put that at risk.”

Chelsea are apparently in the conversation for Pickford because they want to replace their own goalies.

Todd Boehly and Graham Potter are said to be in agreement over wanting Edouard Mendy out of Stamford Bridge.

Mendy reportedly shares the view of his owner and manager, having majorly dipped in form in the past few months.

Kepa Arrizabalaga is also in danger of being shunted aside, although it will probably prove trickier to shift the Spaniard than his gloved teammate.

Either way, for Pickford to head to London, one of Kepa or Mendy must be removed first.