Manchester United considered move for England goalkeeper

Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford was reportedly a target for Manchester United during the recently-concluded summer transfer window.

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had to contend with the uncertainty surrounding David de Gea's future during the off-season and it had been predicted that he could head for an exit with his contract expiring in the summer of 2020.

However, that was certainly not the case with De Gea staying put but The Athletic claims Pickford was earmarked as a probable replacement for the Spain international.

De Gea has come under criticism from his own supporters for the average performances this year but he has nonetheless retained the trust from his teammates and the head coach.

He has just 11 months remaining on his existing deal with the club but reports indicate they are close to rewarding the shot-stopper with a new and improved contract worth £290,000-a-week.

Manchester United are currently eighth on the league table with five points on the board. They are scheduled to entertain Leicester City at Old Trafford this weekend.