Former Hibernian striker Tam McManus fears England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford may quit Everton in January amid interest from Chelsea.

Pickford, who has just over 18 months remaining on his contract at Goodison Park, impressed at the World Cup with England.

“Pickford has proven with England that he is a brilliant goalkeeper,” McManus told Football Insider.

“He is having a very good World Cup. He won’t want to go back to Everton and be in a relegation battle. There have to be clubs looking at that situation.

“Teams at the top end of the league will be looking to bring him in for a cut-price deal. Everton have a lot to think about.

“If they get relegated then they will lose him for next to nothing so maybe now is the time to sell if an offer comes in.

“Everyone is watching him in Qatar and he’s been brilliant.

“He’s had proper defenders ahead of him and the Everton defence this season hasn’t been that good.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if a bid came in and I think Pickford would take that opportunity if the club is right near the top of the table.”