Frank can finally axe "out of control" EFC flop by signing "outstanding" £18k-p/w star - opinion

Following a nightmare season, Everton are now linked with signing a big replacement in the first team at the end of the season.

According to The Mirror, Everton are ‘watching developments closely’ to potentially make a move for goalkeeper Sam Johnstone this summer.

The report suggests that the future of Jordan Pickford could be in doubt, as the Toffees eye a move for the West Brom number one who will be out of contract this summer.

However, Everton will face tough competition in securing his signature as another Premier League club is linked, with Tottenham Hotspur also reported being interested in signing Johnstone.

If the opportunity arises for Frank Lampard to sign a new keeper, it might be the perfect opportunity to finally axe his current keeper who has not had a good season and become part of the problem in the club’s current relegation battle.

According to SofaScore, the keeper has conceded 1.7 goals per game and 50 goals in total in the Premier League this season, completing only 34% of his long balls and keeping only five clean sheets – the joint third-worst worst record in the league.

The Telegraph reported earlier this season that Tottenham were interested in signing the Everton flop to replace Huge Lloris, however, following the poor defensive record the side has carried this season, it may be an opportunity Antonio Conte decides to pass upon.

Pickford was recently slammed for being “out of control” following the 4-0 FA Cup defeat to Crystal Palace by Stephen Warnock who told Sky Sports:

“He’s just so animated, that for me, every time I see him I think there’s a mistake coming or he’s out of control in what he’s doing constantly.”

Johnstone on the other hand has been the recipient of high praise for his hard