The transfer window is just a couple of days away from slamming shut for a short period of time, and clubs across the divisions are quickly working to bring in new faces – including Everton.
The Premier League outfit are preparing for life at a new stadium, with the men’s team’s 133-year affiliation with Goodison Park coming to an end last month as the Toffees comfortably retained their top flight status.
Delving into the EFL has brought success for David Moyes in the past, and a younger team is clearly the plan for the Scottish manager, with Derby County awaiting his judgement on Harrison Armstrong following an excellent loan spell last season.
It is the goalkeeper position that Everton are now looking to strengthen as Moyes eyes up a reserve for Jordan Pickford and Sheffield United may be at risk of losing their number one this summer.
Everton hope to secure Michael Cooper deal in the transfer window
Michael Cooper was sensational for the Blades last season, and despite Chris Wilder’s failure in the play-offs, he knows that he has one of the division’s best shot-stoppers as he looks to mount a promotion push in 2025/26.
Photo by Ed Sykes/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images
Photo by Ed Sykes/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images
However, it emerged on Sunday morning that Everton are showing an interest in the 25-year-old, but Alan Nixon has reported that there is a hold-up in any potential deal.
He said: “Everton want Sheffield United’s top-class keeper Michael Cooper to be Jordan Pickford’s number two. Boss David Moyes wants a better option as cover for Pickford after letting two experienced shot-stoppers go.
“The Toffees are sweet on Cooper but Blades are in no rush to sell after missing out on promotion, and Cooper is not keen on any move where he would be sitting on the bench at this stage of his career.”
Chris Wilder must ensure Michael Cooper stays at Sheffield United
Following Tommy Watson’s 95th minute winner for Sunderland at Wembley in the play-off final, Wilder’s full focus has been on next season and making sure that Sheffield United do not have to face play-off heartbreak once again.
Keeping hold of Cooper is a must if the Blades are to be involved in that fight for promotion next season, and with the race for the top two predicted to be tight in the Championship, selling the goalkeeper could prove to be the difference between the second and third.
Sheffield United are closing in on their first signing of the summer in the shape of Jimmy Dunne, and ensuring that their first-choice shot-stopper stays at Bramall Lane is vital to keep the backline as strong as it has been previously.