Bayern Munich pause Pickford pursuit from Everton as Bundesliga evolves

Jordan Pickford, the 32‑year‑old England No 1, is unlikely to leave Everton this summer as Bayern Munich have reportedly shelved any immediate pursuit. Sources told TEAMtalk that Bayern, still planning Manuel Neuer’s long‑term successor, are not currently targeting the Everton goalkeeper.

Neuer’s future dictates Bayern’s strategy

Manuel Neuer, now 40, remains a pivotal figure at Bayern Munich despite his international career ending after last summer’s World Cup finals. There is a belief that the current season could be Neuer’s final campaign, yet the club will not force him into retirement. This stance has complicated Bayern’s succession planning, prompting a shift away from external signings.

Internal options take precedence

Bayern have identified Jonas Urbig as a strong candidate to inherit the No 1 role when Neuer eventually steps aside. The club’s scouting operation is now focused on finding a high‑quality back‑up for Urbig rather than pursuing another long‑term goalkeeper. Teenage Leonard Prescott, who has already featured in the 2026 first‑team squad, is also highly regarded and expected to emerge sooner rather than later.

Everton’s contract safeguards Pickford

Everton tied Pickford down to a new contract in October last year, extending his stay until the summer of 2029. The goalkeeper has expressed no desire to push for a departure, and his family is happy and settled on Merseyside. Our report notes that Pickford enjoys a fantastic relationship with the fans, reinforcing his commitment to the club.

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Brighton & Hove Albion’s Bart Verbruggen, once viewed as a potential successor to Neuer, has seen his prospects fade as the veteran continues to feature. This development further narrows Bayern’s external options, making a move for Pickford less logical.

While Bayern Munich remain open to extending Neuer’s tenure beyond next summer if he maintains expected standards, the club appears comfortable with an internal pathway. Consequently, the headline linking Bayern with Pickford has lost momentum, and Everton can breathe a sigh of relief.

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In summary, Bayern’s decision to pause the Pickford pursuit aligns with a broader Bundesliga‑wide focus on home‑grown goalkeeping talent, while Everton’s long‑term contract ensures Pickford stays put for the foreseeable future.