Would Jermaine Beckford Be a Good Fit with Everton?

After his 30 goal season with Leeds, Jermaine Beckford figures to draw interest from some top clubs.

Everton was thought to have the inside track on him. In fact, several in the media have already declared the move to Goodison a done deal.

But not so fast. Although indeed David Moyes is interested in the 26-year-old, other clubs are sure to step up with interest as well. Parma of Italy’s Serie A have done just that, expressing their interest in the Leeds striker.

Last summer Beckford rejected a three year deal from Leeds. Even though Leeds is headed to the Championship next year, thanks in large part to a Beckford goal last weekend, it is expected that Beckford will move on.

Beckford submitted a transfer request last January to his club, when it became known Newcastle had interest in him, but he decided to see the year out with Leeds.

Moyes does have a good history of bringing up players from the lower leagues and having them succeed with Everton.

The Toffees might be an appealing choice to Beckford as well, as they finished strong this season and look to compete toward the top of the Premier League again next year.

Leeds chairman Ken Bates was quoted in the Liverpool Echo as saying, “Although the manager (Simon Grayson) would like him to stay, I suspect it is unlikely. But he will go wish our best wishes.”

Moyes still has to work out deals with Jack Rodwell, Leighton Baines, and Mikel Arteta. Tim Cahill has agreed in principal to a new deal. And then there is the matter of Steven Pienaar, who has decided to see how well he does for South Africa in the World Cup before signing; evidently to see if he can increase his value.

There is no doubt Beckford would help the Blues, but Moyes, like all of us these days, must be sure to spend his money wisely.