It was reported by Sky Sports last week that Chelsea have made Jordan Pickford their number one target in the event that Thibaut Courtois leaves this summer.

Courtois has been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid and reports claim Los Blancos have made a £100 million bid to sign the Belgian and teammate Willian.

Pickford’s stock has risen after his debut season at Everton, in which he was named the club’s Player of the Season.

And he followed that up by shining for England en route to the semi-final of the World Cup.

Losing Courtois would be a blow but Pickford would be a suitable replacement.

His fine leadership skills were on show in Russia, as was his ability with the ball at his feet.

Yet Everton aren’t willing to sell.

Everton have reacted

And they’ve responded to Chelsea’s interest in Pickford by offering the goalkeeper a bumper new contract.

That is according to The Times, who report that the Toffees plan to rip up Pickford’s current deal - which has four years left to run - and offer him an improved deal.

The fact that Pickford signed a five-year contract just last year leaves Everton in a strong position should the ‘keeper attempt to force a move.

But the Toffees’ gesture isn’t just an attempt to ward Chelsea off - it's also to reflect his current standing after a superb year.

The transfer window shuts on August 9 and Everton captain Phil Jagielka isn’t concerned by the rumours linking Pickford with a move away from Goodison Park.

“There is talk about us giving him a new deal but, let’s be honest, football’s crazy,” Jagielka said, per talkSPORT.

“If someone wants to come and offer us £100m or £150m for Jordan then football is football but he’s happy where he is.”

Ultimately, the move hinges on whether Courtois leaves Stamford Bridge or not.

The goalkeeper has one year remaining on his contract and is reportedly eager to return to Spain.