Everton are reportedly eyeing a shock move for former Chelsea star Asmir Begovic as Rafa Benitez looks to find new competition for Jordan Pickford.
According to talkSPORT, Everton are plotting a move for Asmir Begovic. The Bournemouth goalkeeper currently has one year remaining on his contract at the Vitality Stadium, but the Cherries are open to offloading the ex-Chelsea star for free in an attempt to balance their books.
It has put Everton on red alert, with the Premier League giants currently working on a two-year contract for Begovic. The veteran shot stopper has been identified as an ideal option for Rafa Benitez as he looks to shore up the goalkeeping department this summer.
A former member of the Portsmouth youth academy, Begovic is one of the most experienced goalkeepers available in the market. He has spent many years in England, playing for clubs like Bournemouth, Macclesfield, Ipswich, Stoke City and even Chelsea, notching up over 250 appearances in the Premier League.
The Bosnian joined Bournemouth in 2017, featuring in 121 competitive appearances for the club so far. However, it appears the Cherries are now ready to move on by offloading their experienced ‘keeper in the summer after failing to gain promotion back to the Premier League last season.
It ideally paves the way for Everton to secure the services of Begovic. The 34-year-old is expected to be a direct replacement for Robin Olsen, who has returned to AS Roma following the end of his loan spell. It appears the Swedish international would be keen on gaining regular game-time following his exploits at UEFA Euro 2020 with Sweden.
Olsen’s departure has created a void in Everton’s goalkeeping department. They do have England’s number one goalkeeper in Jordan Pickford, but newly appointed Benitez is keen on adding more competition for the Englishman. As such, the Toffees were recently linked with Atalanta’s emerging goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini.
The Italian might be a bit too expensive option as a backup goalkeeper, though. He is also expected to demand regular game-time given his success in Serie A. Therefore, Everton are now content with Begovic, whose vast experience at the highest level of football with Stoke City and Chelsea makes him an excellent alternative for Pickford next season.
Everton have not made too many moves in the summer so far, with Begovic likely to be their first signing for the new season. However, they are facing a battle to keep hold of some of their key players, including Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who is a target for Chelsea.
