Manchester United are preparing a £45 million bid for Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford amid the ongoing contract stand-off with David de Gea, Daily Star report.
The Red Devils have been in negotiations with De Gea over a new deal, but have so far failed to convince him to stay beyond June.
The Spaniard is currently on £375,000-a-week, and has refused to accept a reduced salary of £200,000 to sign a new United contract.
Amidst this, it is reported that United are lining up an approach for Pickford, who could leave Everton amid their financial woes.
Pickford signed a new long-term deal in February this year, but could be sold for around £45m in the current transfer window.
United have the edge over Tottenham Hotspur with Champions League football. They could double his wages of £100,000-a-week.
Pickford won’t be an upgrade on De Gea
The England international has been an undisputed starter for Everton, but he won’t be an upgrade on De Gea next season, in our opinion.
The 29-year-old likes to come off his line regularly, but has not been convincing. Last season, he committed two errors leading to goals while conceding one penalty.
Pickford has impressed with an average of nearly eight long balls per game, but his overall distribution has been poor. He completed just 52 per cent of his passes last term.
Hence, United should look at a better option in the transfer market. Inter Milan’s Andre Onana would be a perfect fit and he could be available for lesser fee than Pickford.
The Cameroonian star is open to joining United from the Nerazzurri. He should settle into the club with ease, considering his four years under manager Erik ten Hag at Ajax.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
