Everton must consider Arsenal goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez for replacing Jordan Pickford.
Emiliano Martinez of Arsenal is in the form of his life. Ever since Arsenal first choice keeper Bernd Leno suffered ligament damage on June 20 against Brighton and Hove Albion, Martinez has put in a brilliant shift, giving birth to debates of him being capable of first choice keeper. The Argentine will look elsewhere if he doesn’t get appropriate game time and I reckon Everton to fancy him.
Before moving to Emiliano Martinez it is worth highlighting the shortcomings of Jordan Pickford last season. The England shot stopper conceded a shocking 56 goals and was thought to become complacent due to the lack of competition for his position in the squad. Carlo Ancelotti has had his doubts with Pickford and is probably evaluating whether to keep him as first choice next season or not.
A couple of weeks ago, Daily Mail reported that Jordan Pickford faces an uncertain future at Everton with the Italian manager unconvinced over the 26 year old’s long term future. If the Toffees decide to part ways with Jordan Pickford, Emiliano Martinez must be the man to replace him with.
The Argentine keeper wants first team football and Everton can be in the position of providing that. According to talkSPORT, Arsenal are open to selling Emiliano Martinez despite excellent form and are even willing to accept a bid of less than £10 million. The 27 year old keeper is likely to return to the Arsenal bench once Leno returns.
For less than £10 million, a 27 year old Martinez could be a highway robbery. The Argentine is capable of displacing Pickford as the first choice net minder in the team but if this transfer is to take place, a sale of Pickford will have to take place. There’s no way that Emiliano Martinez will accept a secondary role. If he was to accept a bits and pieces role, he would rather stay at Arsenal.
The Englishman had admirers in form of Chelsea as the Blues also attempt to get rid of Kepa Arrizabalaga who has struggled from time to time at Stamford Bridge. Everton are also keen on Manchester United keeper Sergio Romero but face competition from Leeds United.
If given a choice between Emiliano Martinez and Romero, I’d pick Martinez any day. He is 6 years younger to the Red Devils keeper and has been terrific between the posts whenever called upon. As for Pickford, the future doesn’t look too bright unless he is able to impress Ancelotti and regain his trust.
Will you prefer Arsenal keeper Emiliano Martinez over Jordan Pickford?