Tottenham have taken further steps in their attempts to sign Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford this month, according to Tuttomercatoweb.
The Lowdown: Conte keen
Reports emerged back in November that Antonio Conte was personally targeting Pickford as he lines up a shortlist of options to replace Hugo Lloris.
The Spurs captain is out of contract in the summer, and although it appears the French shot-stopper will extend his stay for a further 12 months, there are also question marks over the future of Pierluigi Gollini.
Some reports believe the Italian’s Tottenham career is already over, so Conte will likely need at least one new shot-stopper.
Sam Johnstone has also been linked with a move to north London in recent weeks, however, it seems as if Pickford is still on Conte and Fabio Paratici’s radar during the January window.
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The Latest: Italian outlet’s update
According to Tuttomercatoweb, ‘steps forward’ have been taken in Tottenham’s pursuit of Pickford.
The 27-year-old, valued at £22.5m, is under contract at Goodison Park until 2024, however, Spurs seem to be working on a possible transfer this month.
The Verdict: Risky…
Pickford, labelled as ‘one of the best’ by Trevor Sinclair, still has over two years on his Toffees deal, so you’d expect Spurs would need to place a big offer to lure him to north London, especially given his status as England’s number one.
However, West Brom ‘keeper Johnstone is out of contract at the end of June, and with Lloris set to stay until 2023, the Baggies star could be the smarter signing if Tottenham are after a second-choice option for 2022/23.
Samir Handanović is another alternative linked this week and likely to come much cheaper, given he is out of contract this summer and 37 years of age.
It appears as if Conte personally wants Pickford, though, so this could be one to keep a close eye on over the coming weeks.
In other news: Paratici sets sights on brand new target as Conte tells Spurs to sign 81-cap ‘monster’, find out more here.