Everton boss Sean Dyche 'demands new Jordan Pickford deal as priority'

Everton manager Sean Dyche has reportedly urged the club's hierarchy to prioritise a new contract for Jordan Pickford.

The former Burnley boss was appointed manager of the Toffees at the end of January, replacing Frank Lampard who was sacked following a 2-0 defeat to West Ham United.

Dyche has made an instant impact at Goodison Park, guiding his new side to a narrow 1-0 victory over Premier League leaders Arsenal in his first game in charge.

The 51-year-old is now preparing for his first Merseyside derby, with the Toffees set to make the short to Anfield to face their local rivals Liverpool on Monday.

While Dyche is focused on matters on the pitch, he is also believed to be keen to secure the long-term future of his first-choice goalkeeper.

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According to The Sun, Dyche is demanding that the Everton hierarchy prioritise a new contract for Pickford.

The England international has less than 18 months to run of his current deal, and he has recently been linked with a move away from Goodison Park.

Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have all been credited with an interest in the Everton goalkeeper.

Talks over a new contract have reportedly reached a stalemate, with the two parties unable to reach an agreement over his salary.

Pickford is believed to be asking to double his current wages of £100,000 a week, but the club are not willing to meet those demands.

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While the 28-year-old has asked his employers to meet him halfway, Everton are only prepared to offer Pickford a few thousand more a week than his current terms.

Even if the two parties are able to make a breakthrough in contract negotiations, nothing will be formalised until Everton's Premier League status is assured.

The Toffees occupy a relegation place, but with one point separating them from safety, they will move out of the bottom three with a win over their rivals on Monday.

Pickford, who has made 220 appearances for Everton, is expected to start in goal for the Toffees at Anfield.