Godwin ObajeJordan Pickford Could Prove Key in Everton’s Pursuit of £20m Championship Star Gustavo Hamer
Everton are considering a summer swoop for Sheffield United midfielder Gustavo Hamer — and England No.1 Jordan Pickford could inadvertently help the Toffees get the deal over the line.
David Moyes is placing clear emphasis on the Championship market as part of his transfer strategy this summer. The Everton manager has already been linked with moves for West Brom’s Tom Fellows, Liverpool winger Ben Doak (after a productive loan at Middlesbrough), and Sunderland starlet Chris Rigg, although the latter now seems unlikely following Sunderland’s promotion.
Now, attention has turned to 28-year-old Hamer, one of the standout performers in the Championship last season. The Dutch playmaker registered 18 goal involvements and was crowned Sky Bet Championship Player of the Season after leading Sheffield United to the play-off final.
According to reports, the Blades are open to selling Hamer for around £20 million — a price that Everton could meet with the right sales and financial structure in place.
One unexpected boost for the Toffees comes in the form of Pickford, who, like Hamer, is represented by leading agency CAA Stellar. That shared representation could prove helpful during negotiations, particularly if Pickford plays a subtle role in convincing his fellow client to choose Merseyside over rival suitors — notably Leeds United, who are also said to be keen.
Everton are in need of creativity and productivity in midfield, and Hamer’s data underlines why he’s being targeted. According to FBref, he ranks in the top 11% of midfielders across Europe’s top leagues for progressive passes per 90 minutes, making him a valuable asset in transition and buildup play.
He also stands out in expected assisted goals (xAG), ranking in the top 13%, showcasing his vision and chance creation ability. Yet perhaps the most impressive aspect of Hamer’s game is his work off the ball — he places in the top 12% for interceptions, an attribute that aligns with Moyes’ demands for hard-working, disciplined players.
The Dutchman first rose to prominence at Coventry City, where his technical quality and energy made him a standout in the Championship. His seamless adaptation to Sheffield United’s midfield further enhanced his reputation, and now a step up to the Premier League seems imminent.
Everton, under Moyes, are rebuilding with purpose — looking to blend experienced Premier League operators with ambitious talent from the lower divisions. Hamer, with his mix of creativity and combativeness, fits the mould perfectly.
Should a deal be struck, and if Pickford’s agency ties prove useful, Hamer could be pulling the strings at Goodison Park next season — potentially one of the smartest additions of the summer.
Godwin Obaje
