Football News: Manchester United line up Jordan Pickford as David de Gea replacement?

Manchester United are reportedly interested in Everton custodian Jordan Pickford as a summer transfer target.

The Red Devils presently have three senior goalkeepers on their books, with the departure of Crystal Palace loanee Jack Butland reducing their crop.

However, there is still concern about their goalkeeping prospects, with Tom Heaton now 37 years old and Dean Henderson, who has spent this season on loan at Nottingham Forest, unable to impress Erik ten Hag.

United must also work hard to retain the services of long-serving custodian David de Gea, who has just over six weeks left on his contract.

Due to the amount of De Gea's pay, the Red Devils have refused the option to trigger an automatic 12-month extension, and a compromise has yet to be achieved despite promising indicators from all parties.

With Ten Hag under pressure to put together a group capable of fighting for the Premier League title in the next years, United are forced to examine alternatives.

Pickford has surfaced as a potential target for United if they need to enter the transfer market, according to the Daily Star.

The England international extended his contract at Goodison Park until 2027 in February, although his stay is conditional on Everton remaining in the Premier League.

On Monday, the Toffees defeated Brighton & Hove Albion, lifting them two points clear of the drop zone with three games remaining.

Nonetheless, Everton's financial problems mean that a lucrative offer for Pickford may be too good to pass up, especially if they can find a capable replacement for a lower fee.

United are also rumoured to be interested in Anderlecht custodian Bart Verbruggen, who has recently been called up to the Netherlands side.

Despite lacking Pickford's experience, the 20-year-old prospect helped Anderlecht reach the Europa Conference League quarterfinals this season.

United are unlikely to make a decisive decision on their goalkeeping situation until they know whether they will compete in the Champions League next season, with Ten Hag's team under pressure from Liverpool, who are now just a point behind them in the Premier League table.

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