Shay Given Says Chelsea Would Quickly Move for Jordan Pickford If He Shows Interest

Former Premier League goalkeeper Shay Given believes Chelsea would eagerly pursue Everton and England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford if he showed any sign of wanting a move. Pickford, 32, is entering his tenth season with Everton after joining from Sunderland in 2017 for £25 million. He has become a mainstay in the Everton lineup and England’s first choice keeper.

Given Notes Lack of Transfer Rumours Despite Pickford’s Consistency

Speaking to BOYLE Sports, Given expressed surprise over how little transfer talk there has been around Pickford despite his steady performances. Pickford holds the record for most England World Cup appearances and has made 358 appearances for Everton with 100 clean sheets. Even though goalkeepers often switch clubs frequently during the summer, Pickford’s name rarely comes up.

"Jordan Pickford has been at Everton for nearly 10 years now and he’s been England number one for most of that time too and he broke the appearance record for England World Cup games. It is strange that we haven’t heard of other clubs moving in for him during that time," Given said.

"Maybe he’s just really well-settled at Everton. We obviously don’t know if there have been bids for Jordan over the years but there’s usually a sort of goalkeeper merry-go-round some summers, like how we talk about managers moving on."

"Jordan has been in the game for so long you think he must be 34 or 35 but he’s only 32. I moved to Manchester City when I was 33 and goalkeepers in general get better with age as well. He’s got many years left at the top level but maybe Jordan is happy where he is. You’d think Chelsea would be on the phone tomorrow and jump at the chance to sign him if he gave them any encouragement."

Given Praises Pickford's Skills and Personality

"It does surprise me that we don’t see any rumours around him because some of the saves he produces for Everton are just phenomenal. I remember him tipping one over the crossbar from Sandro Tonali at St James Park last season, it was unbelievable but he has that in his locker," Given added.

"He’s a bit of a Steady Eddie, and if you think I’m playing him down by saying that, I’m not. I’m playing him up. When you’ve got a goalkeeper who is that steady, it’s a real plus, and he’s got a real personality. Some people say it can spill over at times, but it shows his passion and hunger and desire for the team to do well. It’s his will to win, you can’t coach that or teach it. It’s just who he is, and I don’t mind that at all."

Pickford Affirms Commitment to Everton

Pickford himself has emphasized his loyalty to Everton. After a match against Brentford last April, he said:

"Everton’s been so good to me, and I’ve been so good to Everton, we’ve got a great relationship. I love the fans, the fanbase is quality. I’ve got the best chant that Everton fans sing. It takes some doing to get an Everton chant, let me tell you that."

Everton's Upcoming Season and Pickford's Role

Everton will open their 2026–27 Premier League campaign at home against Crystal Palace on August 22. Pickford’s leadership and quick reflexes will once again be key to the Toffees’ defense as they face a demanding season ahead. His role as England’s top goalkeeper adds to his importance for the club going forward.

• Upcoming Matches:
• August 5, 2026 - Chelsea vs Juventus (Club Friendly)
• August 8, 2026 - VfB Stuttgart vs Everton (Club Friendly)
• August 22, 2026 - Everton vs Crystal Palace (Premier League)