Everton Open Talks to Sign New Goalkeeper Amid Uncertainty Over Jordan Pickford’s Future
Everton are actively exploring the goalkeeper market as they look to bolster their squad ahead of the 2024/25 season. With the departures of Joao Virginia and veteran Asmir Begovic now official, the Toffees are left short of depth in the goalkeeping department and are expected to act quickly to address the issue.
While Jordan Pickford remains firmly established as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper, and indeed one of the top shot-stoppers in the Premier League, recent developments suggest that Everton could be preparing for changes — whether as added competition or, potentially, as contingency in case Pickford’s future comes into question.
According to a report from journalist Alan Nixon on June 11, Everton are currently in talks to sign experienced Argentine goalkeeper Walter Benítez. The 32-year-old, who recently left Dutch side PSV Eindhoven after the expiration of his contract, is available on a free transfer — a financially appealing option for a club still navigating budgetary constraints. Discussions are said to be ongoing regarding a move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium, where Benítez would be expected to provide backup support to Pickford.
However, there’s a potential snag. Despite Everton’s desire to bring in a reliable second-choice keeper, Benítez is reportedly hesitant about taking on a role that may leave him with limited playing time. At his age, and with over a decade of professional experience, the Argentine may prefer a move that guarantees more minutes rather than serving as an understudy.
The situation is further complicated by lingering uncertainty around Jordan Pickford’s long-term future at Everton. While there has been no official indication that he’s seeking a move, the England international — who has cemented his reputation as one of the most consistent goalkeepers in the league — could attract interest from bigger clubs during the summer window. Pickford’s commanding performances at both club and international level make him a valuable asset, and any club in need of a top-tier goalkeeper could come knocking.
Should Pickford remain at Everton, any new arrival — including Benítez — would be facing the prospect of a season largely spent on the bench, aside from appearances in cup competitions. This makes Everton’s search for a new goalkeeper more complex than it appears on the surface.
Former Sheffield United goalkeeper Mike Cooper has also been linked with a possible move to Merseyside as the club casts a wide net in search of reinforcements. While Cooper could be seen as a longer-term project, Benítez represents a ready-made, experienced option who could step in at a moment’s notice if required.
The timing of the potential deal is also critical. With the summer transfer window set to officially open in just a few days, Everton will need to act swiftly if they want to have their squad in place before pre-season training begins. Manager David Moyes, newly back at the club for his second stint in charge, is keen to start the campaign with clarity around key positions — and the goalkeeping spot is one he is eager to resolve quickly.
Although Pickford’s presence remains a strong anchor for the team, the lack of credible backup is an issue Everton cannot ignore. The exits of both Virginia and Begovic have left a significant void that must be filled, even if just for depth and injury cover.
Ultimately, the club faces a delicate balancing act: securing quality depth without discouraging potential signings with the knowledge that breaking into the starting XI may be a near-impossible task if Pickford stays put. Whether Benítez will accept that role or seek opportunities elsewhere remains to be seen.
One thing is certain: Everton will need to finalize a deal for at least one new goalkeeper this summer — and possibly more, depending on how the Pickford situation unfolds in the coming weeks.