Begovic, Everton
(Credit: Imago)
Carla Devine
Thu 12 June 2025 22:10, UK
David Moyes is ready to add new competition for Jordan Pickford at Everton, but that will be easier said than done.
The Scotsman is keen on reducing the average age of Everton’s squad as they prepare for a new start at Bramley-Moore Dock, after leaving Goodison Park.
The Friedkin Group are expected to give Moyes more backing than the Blues have had in recent seasons.
With Asmir Begovic leaving Everton upon the expiry of his contract, Everton need a new back-up goalkeeper, but he has left with a warning for whoever is next.
David Moyes Everton
Moyes has work to do with Everton this summer. (Credit: Imago)
Begovic makes Pickford admission at Everton
After two spells with Everton, Begovic will leave when his contract expires, with Pickford the clear number one choice in Blue.
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The England international’s form for the Toffees has made it impossible for anyone to displace him, and although Everton need back-up, Moyes is keen to look elsewhere.
It’s no surprise that he allowed Begovic to leave Merseyside, with Sheffield United star Michael Cooper a possible replacement.
The goalkeeper didn’t make a single appearance for the Toffees this season and is seemingly well understanding of that, after the admission he made about Pickford.
Speaking to The Athletic (12 June), Begovic admitted: “He’s playing at an incredibly high level.
“Obviously, he loves being at Everton, and Everton love him. He’s doing the business for England, going from strength to strength, and it’s great to see.
“We’ve developed a really big respect and friendship, pushed each other in training and made each other better. You do get better with experience. I’ve seen a change [in] his maturity, the way he plays the game.
“He’s been the best goalkeeper in the Premier League for the last five years.”
Everton's new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock
Everton are preparing for a move to Bramley-Moore Dock. (Credit: Imago)
Cooper would be making a risky move to Everton
Pickford is still performing to his very best levels and, as Begovic says, he is certainly a standout performer in the top flight.
At 31-years-old, Everton also need to ensure that they have the appropriate succession plans in place for the time when Pickford does need to step back.
Cooper comes with rave reviews and after an excellent season with Sheffield United in the Championship, he will surely be ready for a step up, with the Toffees watching closely.
Player Appearances Clean Sheets Goals Conceded
Pickford 38 12 44
Cooper 43 21 33
Everton are looking at Cooper as a backup goalkeeper.
However, Begovic’s words about Pickford will surely serve as a warning that, however good Cooper may be, displacing the number one choice will be no easy task on Merseyside.
Having the opportunity to play with and learn from one of the best could prove to be an exciting prospect for the 25-year-old.
Nevertheless, at his age, this is surely not the time to be spending too long sitting on the bench and a move to Everton would surely leave him questioning how long it would be until he was given a chance.
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