Chelsea and Man United interested in England star amid uncertain future

Manchester United made a winning return to Premier League action on Tuesday as they beat Nottingham Forest 3-0 at Old Trafford. 

Goals from Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Fred gave Erik ten Hag’s side an important victory, and moved them to within just a point of the Champions League qualification places.

Up next for United is a visit to Wolves on Saturday, but in the meantime it appears that the club have been made aware of the possibility of signing an England star.

According to The Mail, United have been alerted to the fact that Jordan Pickford’s future at Everton remains uncertain.

It is claimed that the England goalkeeper had agreed a new five-year deal with The Toffees last month, although the club are yet to officially sign off the extension.

The deal was agreed prior to the World Cup in Qatar, during which Pickford once again cemented his place as England’s first choice ‘keeper.

The 28-year-old played every minute of The Three Lions’ run to the quarter-finals, but was unable to prevent France from ending their hopes in the second knockout round.

Pickford is said to be keen on signing the new deal, and manager Frank Lampard has also expressed a desire for the player to do so.

Pickford was unable to prevent Wolves from grabbing a late winner at Goodison Park on Monday

United are not the only side that are interested in Pickford though, with both Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur also said to be keeping tabs on the situation.

Ten Hag will be on the hunt for a ‘keeper in the coming months as current number one David de Gea nears the end of his contract.

The Spaniard’s deal is due to expire next summer, which would leave United with no senior goalkeepers as Tom Heaton is also set to be out of contract at the end of the season, and Martin Dubravka is only on loan from Newcastle United.

Chelsea, meanwhile, have their own issues in the goalkeeping department.

Both Edouard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalaga have failed to maintain the starting spot at Stamford Bridge in recent seasons, which could prompt The Blues to move for a replacement either in January or next summer.

If Pickford’s contract isn’t finalised, the Englishman could leave during the summer of 2024 when his current deal expires.

To date, the former Sunderland man has made more than 200 appearances for Everton, and has also been England’s first choice ‘keeper at each of the last three major tournaments.