England star set for contract extension at Everton

Pickford poised for new Everton deal as club look to secure key core

Pickford set for long-term Everton stay

Jordan Pickford is on the verge of signing a new contract at Everton that could see him remain on Merseyside for up to 12 years, according to The Times. The England goalkeeper, who joined from Sunderland in 2017 for £30 million, has become one of the defining figures of the club’s modern era. His new deal is expected to be confirmed before Everton’s return to Premier League action against Manchester City next weekend.

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Manager David Moyes and owners The Friedkin Group have made the retention of key players a central part of their rebuilding project. Having recently tied down James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite, Everton are now set to reward Pickford’s loyalty and leadership.

Leadership and legacy between the posts

Pickford’s influence extends beyond his shot-stopping. His 300th Premier League appearance, marked with a win over Crystal Palace, symbolised his consistency through Everton’s turbulent seasons. His composure and vocal command have steadied the backline during testing campaigns, often providing a sense of assurance when the club hovered near relegation.

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One club source reportedly said, “Jordan sets the standards in training and drives others to improve. He’s become the heartbeat of this team.” Such praise reflects a goalkeeper who has grown into a senior statesman both at Everton and on the international stage.

England’s first-choice remains unshaken

At international level, Pickford continues to hold the trust of England boss Thomas Tuchel. He became the first goalkeeper since Gordon Banks to record eight consecutive clean sheets for his country, shutting out Wales last week. Tuchel had previously claimed the race for the number one spot was “open,” yet Pickford remains the first choice over Dean Henderson and James Trafford.

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He is expected to earn his 80th cap in Riga against Latvia, with England eyeing qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Everton planning further extensions

Beyond Pickford’s renewal, Everton are also working to extend the contracts of James Garner and Vitalii Mykolenko. Garner’s deal expires at the end of the season, while Mykolenko’s performances at left back have attracted interest across Europe. Securing both would ensure continuity for a side rebuilding its stability both on and off the pitch.

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Pickford has been through everything with the Toffees, from European dreams to relegation battles, and his loyalty deserves immense respect. Many fans see him as the embodiment of Everton’s fighting spirit.

A fan might say, “Pickford staying shows this club still has heart. He could have gone to any of the top sides, but he’s chosen to lead here.” That sentiment reflects the pride supporters take in seeing homegrown resilience rewarded over fleeting ambition.

Keeping him, along with Branthwaite, Tarkowski, and potentially Garner and Mykolenko, gives Everton a defensive spine capable of competing and developing under Moyes’ guidance. It also sends a message that the new ownership intends to build, not sell.

There is also an emotional connection that cannot be quantified. When Pickford thumps his chest in front of the Fans, it symbolises a bond between club and fanbase rarely seen in modern football. For many Evertonians, this new contract is not just a transaction, it’s a statement of belief that the club can climb again, powered by leaders who genuinely care.