Everton: Major transfer blow in chase of Valencia keeper Jasper Cillessen

Everton has received a transfer blow as Valencia coach Javi Gracia has ruled out Jasper Cillessen exit.

While the majority of Everton players are garnering praises for their strong starts to the season, Jordan Pickford is on the opposite end. The Englishman is being criticized game after game for his silly mistakes that have resulted in Everton conceding pointless goals. Fans have been rallying for bringing a replacement who’ll challenge Jordan Pickford. Valencia goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen is a reported target.

Valencia’s finances have massively plummeted resulting in a fire sale. Rodrigo, Ferran Torres, Dani Parejo and Francis Coquelin are some of the big name departures. Jasper Cillessen is also heavily touted to leave Los Che. The Dutch goalkeeper is one of the highest earners at the club and Valencia may find it difficult to pay wages to their players due to their current financial turmoil.

According to Marca, Everton has already submitted one bid for Jasper Cillessen however, the bid was not close to the La Liga side’s £32 million valuation. Despite Carlo Ancelotti’s statement during the Friday press conference about denying the need for a new keeper, there’s a growing feeling among the Everton faithful that a change is needed between the posts. Ancelotti said:

"There is a lot of focus on him but, I have to be honest, he started really well and did a fantastic match against Tottenham. I am not really focused on him, like you. He is a great goalkeeper. He has my total confidence. We are not looking for this. (via Liverpool Echo reporter Phil Kirkbride)"

However, there has been a twist in the story. While speaking to Marca, Valencia coach Javi Gracia said that he is no more exits would happen when asked about Cillessen’s future at Mestalla.

"The players that I have I think they will be there today. That there are no exits. But what will happen in the next few days I don’t know. I am not in the day to day. Nor conversations of the person in charge of entrances and exits. In order not to make mistakes or speculate, I don’t know … I’d rather be my own thing."

This will be a major transfer blow for Everton if they were really interested in the Dutchman’s services. Things can obviously change before the end of the transfer window. Despite Gracia’s comments, there’s no running away from the fact that the Spanish side is in a dire financial situation.

Everton can play the waiting game and with each progressing day, Valencia may get restless and could be forced to yield and sell Cillessen for a cheaper price. Marcel Brands is a shrewd negotiator and doesn’t surrender to audacious demands.

I still feel that the Toffees will make a move for a goalkeeper if there is an opportunity. Everton won’t be able to challenge for trophies or a top six spot if Jordan Pickford continues to disappoint.