Everton Goalkeeper’s Possible Move to Brighton & Hove Albion Made Possible with Conditional Deal
*May 23, 2025 – Liverpool, England*
In a developing story that could shape the trajectory of both clubs ahead of the 2025–26 Premier League campaign, Everton and Brighton & Hove Albion have reportedly reached a conditional agreement over the potential transfer of Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. The deal, which remains unofficial at this stage, is said to be structured with multiple performance-based clauses and conditional triggers to accommodate the financial and sporting needs of both clubs.
Sources close to the negotiations suggest that Brighton have made Pickford their primary target following the likely departure of current No. 1 Bart Verbruggen, who is attracting interest from continental clubs. Everton, meanwhile, are looking to restructure their squad and balance their books amid long-standing financial concerns, which include regulatory scrutiny from the Premier League.
**Deal Structure and Financial Considerations**
The proposed deal reportedly includes a base transfer fee in the region of £20 million, with add-ons that could see the total package rise to £30 million. These add-ons are said to be tied to a series of conditions, including:
* Brighton achieving a top-eight finish in the Premier League.
* Pickford making a minimum number of appearances across all competitions.
* The club qualifying for European competition within the next two seasons.
* Pickford maintaining a clean sheet record surpassing his Premier League average.
The deal also includes a sell-on clause that could see Everton benefit further should Brighton sell Pickford in the future. Additionally, personal terms with the England international are reportedly in the final stages of being agreed, with a potential four-year contract on the table.
**Why Brighton Want Pickford**
Brighton’s desire to sign a proven Premier League goalkeeper comes amid their ongoing transformation from mid-table stability to a consistent European contender. Pickford brings not only experience and international pedigree but also vocal leadership and exceptional shot-stopping — traits that would anchor an evolving defense under head coach Fabian Hurzeler, who replaced Roberto De Zerbi earlier this year.
Having been England’s first-choice goalkeeper for nearly a decade, Pickford’s ability in high-pressure scenarios and his ball distribution fits Brighton’s style of play. The Seagulls are known for building attacks from the back, and Pickford’s comfort on the ball is seen as a critical asset.
“This would be a massive signing for Brighton,” said former club captain Gordon Greer during a Sky Sports panel discussion. “He’s got the personality, the talent, and the experience to elevate this team. And let’s not forget — he’s still only 31, so there’s a lot of football left in him.”
**Everton’s Perspective: Balancing Talent and Necessity**
While Pickford has been a mainstay and standout performer for Everton since joining from Sunderland in 2017, the club’s financial constraints have made difficult decisions inevitable. Everton narrowly avoided relegation last season and continue to operate under the shadow of Financial Fair Play concerns.
Selling Pickford — while unpopular among supporters — could help alleviate financial pressure and fund reinvestment across several areas of the squad. Everton are also believed to have identified a shortlist of younger, cost-effective goalkeeping replacements, including Sunderland’s Anthony Patterson and Burnley’s Arijanet Muric.
Club insiders indicate that manager Sean Dyche remains focused on stabilizing the team with a deeper, more balanced squad, even if it means parting ways with high-profile names. “This would be a strategic decision more than a sporting one,” said former Everton midfielder Leon Osman. “No one doubts Pickford’s importance, but Everton are in a rebuild, and sometimes that means letting go of your stars.”
**Fan Reactions and Transfer Window Implications**
Fan response to the rumors has been mixed. While some Evertonians express frustration at potentially losing a fan favorite and team leader, others acknowledge the necessity of long-term planning and financial realism.
For Brighton supporters, the possibility of landing a player of Pickford’s caliber is met with excitement and optimism. “He’s exactly what we need to push into that next tier,” tweeted one Brighton fan. “Europe isn’t a dream anymore — it’s the goal.”
If finalized, the deal could also impact the transfer strategies of other Premier League clubs. Manchester United and Newcastle were both previously linked with Pickford, and his move to Brighton may prompt a domino effect as teams look to solidify their goalkeeping positions ahead of the new season.
**Conclusion: A Conditional Deal with Big Potential**
As of now, the deal between Everton and Brighton remains subject to final negotiations and medical evaluations. However, all indications point to a mutually beneficial arrangement built on performance incentives and long-term planning.
For Brighton, Pickford represents a statement signing — one that would underline their ambitions and stabilize a key position. For Everton, the conditional nature of the deal reflects a careful, strategic approach to squad evolution amid financial constraints.
Should the deal be finalized, it may go down as one of the summer’s smartest and most pragmatic transfers — a rare win-win for both clubs navigating the ever-shifting dynamics of the Premier League.
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