Everton: 22 year old goalkeeper prefers to stay put instead of signing for Everton

Everton have expressed interest in bringing in David Harrington as a young backup keeper but their efforts have fallen short.

The negotiation between Everton and Cork City has been cut short with Harrington lobbying to stay put for the season according to the Irish Examiner. Harrington, just 22-years old, was an academy graduate for his Irish club. His contract expires before the end of the year so a move is likely even if it is through a free transfer to another club.

Harrington possesses an elite skill set for a young keeper and he caught the eye of many Everton scouts during his first full season as a starter. Harrington has started in 26 matches and only allowed 14 goals during that span.

What is more impressive is that Harrington has kept a clean sheet in over half of his matches thus far. He has also propelled Cork City to first place in their division which will not change with only a game left in the season.

David Harrington could have been backup Everton keeper in near future

Everton are not in need of a goalkeeper since they extended Jordan Pickford not too long ago. Pickford is a much more developed player and in no danger of his spot being taken. The 28-year old Englishmen could be a great mentor to Harrington if he were to come play for Everton. It is also likely that Everton could purchase Harrington and then send him off on a loan spell to further his development. Joao Virginia is a 22-year old keeper just like Harrington who is on loan at SC Cambuur.

Veteran Asmir Begovic signed a new one year deal earlier this summer and continues to be Pickford’s deputy. The 35 year old has largely played cup games with occasional outings in the Premier League due to Pickford’s unavailability. Harrington probably serves as a successor to Begovic as a backup but the move doesn’t seem to be happening anytime soon as the Irishman has insisted that he wants to stay put.

Harrington is destined to be a great player no matter where he ends up. His club are not likely to sell him before the end of his contract this year but Everton could pursue him as a free agent.

Do you think David Harrington will come to Everton?