Shay Given: Chelsea Would Quickly Move for Jordan Pickford if He Shows Interest

Shay Given Sees Chelsea Ready to Sign Jordan Pickford

Former Premier League goalkeeper Shay Given thinks Chelsea would eagerly pursue Everton and England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford if the player showed any sign of wanting a move. Pickford, now 32, has been a dependable figure at Goodison Park since joining from Sunderland in 2017 for £25 million.

Pickford's Long-Term Role at Everton

Having spent almost ten years at Everton, Pickford has made 358 appearances and kept 100 clean sheets. His contract runs until June 2029, yet rumors about his future have been surprisingly scarce despite his consistency. Given finds it odd no other clubs have made a clear move for him over the years.

Given Comments on Pickford's Quiet Transfer Profile

"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 through BOYLE Sports.

He suggested Pickford might be very comfortable at Everton or that transfer interest just hasn’t surfaced publicly. Given also pointed out how goalkeepers tend to improve with age, noting he himself moved clubs at 33 and Pickford still has many good years ahead.

"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 added.

He praised some of Pickford’s outstanding saves, such as a remarkable tip over the bar against Sandro Tonali last season, highlighting Pickford’s steady presence and strong personality.

"He’s a bit of a Steady Eddie, and if you think I’m playing him down by saying that, I’m not. 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’s Commitment to Everton Remains Strong

Pickford himself has expressed loyalty to Everton, emphasizing his bond with the club and fans. 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."

Looking Ahead to the New Season

Everton begins their 2026–27 Premier League campaign at home versus Crystal Palace on August 22. Pickford’s leadership and reflexes will once again anchor the team’s defense as they face a challenging schedule. His role as England’s first-choice goalkeeper adds significant value to Everton’s hopes for a solid season.

• Club Friendlies:
• Chelsea vs Juventus: August 5, 2026, 13:30
• VfB Stuttgart vs Everton: August 8, 2026, 17:00