Palace goalkeeper lined up by Everton as possible Pickford replacement

Everton are ready to trigger a release clause for Crystal Palace goalkeeper Sam Johnstone as rumours around Jordan Pickford’s future continue.

Reports in a national newspaper claim that the Toffees are weighing up a move for Johnstone and can trigger a clause in his current contract to do so.

If there is any truth to this, it would add a great deal of substance to rumours that Everton are prepared to sell Pickford, if the price is right.

Losing their England keeper would be a blow to the Blues and it would certainly be hard to find a replacement who can deliver the sort of match-winning, world-class saves that Pickford has become renowned for.

However, having said all that, every player has a price I suppose and the club desperately need funds to strengthen the squad as a matter of urgency before the new season begins.

He is also one of the few player assets who could fetch a serious sum, along with Amadou Onana.

And while Pickford certainly has made considerable strides since he first joined Everton – when he was prone to appearing distracted in games and making costly errors – there are still times when he can make significant mistakes, although what goalkeeper doesn’t?

In addition, he doesn’t always come out being more content to stay between his posts rather than coming out, taking control in the box and organising his defence.

These are relatively minor criticisms to be honest. And, I would prefer to keep him, if at all possible, as the England number one has played a crucial part in keeping the Toffees up in each of the last two campaigns. Top class shot-stoppers are very hard to find.

As for Johnstone, he didn’t play many games for Palace last season and has fallen behind his rival Spanish goalkeeper Vicente Guaita in the competition for a starting place,

But he is a stopper who is quite similar to Pickford in terms of his main qualities and at 30 he is around the peak of his powers in theory anyway.

Will Everton sell Pickford if Manchester United or another club come in with a substantial bid and will Johnstone replace him?

Well, whoever lines up in goal for the Blues on opening day in August will need a strong and consistent season if the Toffees are to avoid another struggle for survival.