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Chelsea transfer news: Blues make Jordan Pickford decision amid Courtois uncertainty
CHELSEA have decided Jordan Pickford is their No 1 transfer target should Thibaut Courtois leave this summer.
The England stopper has seen his stock rise after an impressive World Cup campaign for Gareth Southgate's Three Lions.
Pickford only joined Everton from Sunderland last summer in a deal worth £30m.
But according to Sky Sports, Chelsea are hoping to lure the 24-year-old to Stamford Bridge should they lose Courtois in the next few weeks.
Despite only having less than a year on his current deal, the Belgian has stalled on signing a new contract at Chelsea amid significant interest from Real Madrid.
The Blues have acted accordingly, drawing up a list of shot-stoppers who could potentially replace Courtois.
Petr Cech, Kasper Schmeichel and Jack Butland have all been linked with a move to west London.
But Pickford sits at the top of the club's list of potential targets.
Chelsea have not yet launched an official bid for the Toffees 'keeper as they wait to see whether Madrid make their move in the next few weeks.
New boss Maurizio Sarri is hoping to speak with Courtois when he returns from holiday next week.
But it will take a big effort to persuade the former Atletico Madrid man not to pursue a return to the Spanish capital.
Chelsea have just added Rob Green to their goalkeeping ranks to provide backup for Courtois and No 2 Willy Caballero.