Everton recently began a conquest to tie down some of their better players, with Alex Iwobi and Anthony Gordon having both made big strides in securing long-term deals.

However, the one who seems to be taking longer than fans will have wanted is Jordan Pickford, who has established himself as one of the division's outstanding shot-stoppers in recent years.

Such is his pedigree now, he has become a mainstay for Gareth Southgate’s England, breaking numerous records with his sensational performances for club and country.

Despite Frank Lampard remaining confident they can match his ambitions, some of the Premier League’s elite continue to be linked with a move for the 28-year-old.

The 44-year-old could be seeking out the heir to his dependable 'keeper already, however, with reports linking the Toffees with a move for Ajax youngster Charlie Setford.

With the 18-year-old boasting interest from the likes of Borussia Dortmund and Tottenham Hotspur, plenty of Europe’s elite have been put on high alert as he is set to leave on a free transfer at the end of the season.

The teenage sensation is yet to represent the Dutch giants at the senior level but boasts appearances at every level from U17s to U21s despite his youth.

In his eight appearances last season in the Eerste Divisie, he had made 20 saves whilst boasting a 73% pass accuracy.

The fact that he would even average 5.6 accurate long balls per game is indicative of his talents as a fine modern goalkeeper.

His exploits were recognised as the Englishman won Ajax’s prestigious ‘Talent of the Future’ award, which is reserved for the best academy player for that year.

Previous winners of late have been Christian Eriksen, Matthijs de Ligt and Ryan Gravenberch, with the latest being the 6 foot 4 starlet destined for greatness.

Potentially a future starter for the Three Lions, perhaps Kevin Thelwell could replace the current number one with one for the future, should his contract talks continue to falter.