Nikita Haikin wants to complete his career in English football and Everton could be a potential destination.
The chances of Everton taking over Nikita Haikin’s shares may have increased following the announcement of his departure from Bodo/Glimt.
The 6-foot-2 goalkeeper has unfinished business in English football, having previously played for Chelsea but never made a first-team appearance before moving on to Portsmouth and Reading.
The former Russia Under-21 international’s contract expires next month, and the Blues are keen to sign him, according to the Telegraph, in a meeting with former Chelsea manager Frank Lampard.
Speaking about his pending departure from Bodo/Glimt, who won the Norwegian Eliteserien title in 2020 and 2021, Haikin said: “It’s been a great ride. What we have achieved both in Norway and in Europe is quite special. It was very difficult (saying goodbye). Sad, actually. The reception and the love that I received from the fans is very, very special. I can’t describe it. I am speechless.”
Haikin has admitted that he currently has “no idea” where he will end up next, but it is understood that he has already held discussions with various interested parties.
“I think everyone understood where I was standing,” he added. I think now is an excellent time to move on to a new challenge and get out of my comfort zone. I am grateful for the whole experience, including the people I met, the games we played, and Norway as a country. “I love this country.”
With Jordan Pickford well established as Everton’s first-choice goalkeeper, Haikin could be a candidate to replace Asmir Begovic as the Blues’ backup goalkeeper, whose 35-year contract expires at the end of the season.