Everton have announced the signing of Jordan Pickford from Sunderland for a club-record £25m fee, which could rise to £30m.
The England U21 international is currently with the national side ahead of the European U21 Championship and was widely expected to leave the Black Cats following their relegation.
Arsenal were credited with an interest in Pickford, but it’s the Toffees who have won the race to secure the young goalkeeper, who averaged more saves per 90 (4.7) than any Premier League shotstopper last season.
“Jordan Pickford says he is ready for an “exciting time” for him and for Everton after signing a five-year deal with the Blues for a Club-record fee,” a statement read on the club’s official website.
“The highly-rated goalkeeper has moved to Goodison Park from Sunderland after the first and only negotiations commenced between Everton and the north east club last weekend. A deal was agreed quickly and harmoniously, enabling talks to then begin with the player.
“The £25m fee for the 23-year-old could rise to £30m depending on team and individual performances – a British record and third highest fee in the world for any player in that position.
“Pickford, who has represented England at every level from Under-16s to Under-21s and received his first call-up to the senior squad in October, was shortlisted for PFA Young Player of the Year last season despite Sunderland’s relegation from the Premier League.”
On the deal, Pickford, 23, said: “It’s great to sign for the Club. Last season was my first in the Premier League so to get this opportunity with Everton now, to be able to go forward with my career and show everyone what I can do with Everton is unbelievable.
“It’s a great club, a massive club and I think it’s a great opportunity and the right time for me to come to Everton and show what I can do.
“This is an exciting time for the Club and for me, too, with the ambition being shown. I just want to be the best I can be to help.
“I know Mason (Holgate – his England Under-21 teammate) and a few of the other lads at Everton from younger age groups and the Club’s only going forward, so it’s the best thing I can be doing.
“I remember playing (at Everton) on my first game back from injury last season for Sunderland. When I came out for the second half the fans gave me a clap and applauded then so I can’t wait to get out there on the pitch at Goodison.
“I’ve just got to show people what I can do, keep training and working hard and when it comes to game day, produce what I can do - making match-winning saves, showing what my distribution is like and making the right saves at the right times.”
Manager Ronald Koeman added: “I’m really pleased we’ve made what I'm sure will be a significant signing for Everton Football Club.
“Jordan is a very talented young professional who also has a real hunger for success, and that's important for us as we now look to make further progress in the seasons ahead.
“We've seen the quality he has through his performances in the Premier League last season and, given his young age, we're sure he will get even better. I’m looking forward to welcoming Jordan to the group next month and wish him every success with the England Under-21 squad in Poland.”
