CONFIRMED: Everton complete £25 million Jordan Pickford signing from Sunderland

Everton have completed the signing of goalkeeper Jordan Pickford from Sunderland.

The 23-year-old joins the Blues in a £25 million deal that could eventually rise to £30 million as a result of various add-ons and clauses. That fee is a British record for a goalkeeper and is also the third highest transfer fee ever paid for a goalkeeper in the world.

He has signed a five-year deal at Goodison Park and describes the move as unbelievable, stating his intentions on the club’s official website to get into the first team at the earliest opportunity.

“It’s great to sign for the Club. Last season was my first in the Premier League so to get this opportunity with Everton now, to be able to go forward with my career and show everyone what I can do with Everton is unbelievable.

“It’s a great club, a massive club and I think it’s a great opportunity and the right time for me to come to Everton and show what I can do.

“This is an exciting time for the Club and for me, too, with the ambition being shown. I just want to be the best I can be to help.”

Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images

The England U21 international is the Blues first signing of the summer transfer window, in what is looking likely to be a busy couple of months for the Blues.

He solves a major issue for manager Ronald Koeman, who rotated between goalkeepers Joel Robles and Maarten Stekelenburg in goal last season.

Neither proved themselves to be long-term number ones though and Koeman believes the capture of Pickford could prove to be a significant one for the club.

“I’m really pleased we’ve made what I'm sure will be a significant signing for Everton Football Club.

“Jordan is a very talented young professional who also has a real hunger for success, and that's important for us as we now look to make further progress in the seasons ahead.

“We've seen the quality he has through his performances in the Premier League last season and, given his young age, we're sure he will get even better.”