Source: Telegraph
Everton look to sign Jack Rodwell on longterm contract
The talented 17-year-old, who has reportedly interested Arsenal and Manchester United, was handed a start by manager David Moyes and responded by giving Everton an early lead in their 3-1 FA Cup win. [LNB]Rodwell has been offered a five-year deal at Everton, and according to the Daily Express[LNB], negotiations are now at an advanced stage [LNB]While Rodwell's preferred position is midfield Moyes believes he has a potential centre back on his hands who could go on to become as good as current Manchester United and England star Rio Ferdinand. [LNB]Moyes said: "I don't know where Rio started his career but I'm sure he played in midfield for a spell. [LNB]"I think Jack Rodwell was outstanding again and he's a good boy who wants to keep improving. [LNB]"He's got a great manner about him and is one of those players clubs love to have. I think he has a lot of similar qualities to Rio and could go on to become a centre back like him in the future." [LNB]Everton will now face either West Ham or Middlesbrough in the quarter-finals, and Moyes added: 'I thought this game might be a bridge too far for us given how the squad is. But we had some great performances out there. [LNB]'Tim Howard got a terrible injury playing for America in midweek and I didn't think he was going to be able to play. But he woke up in the morning and said he was going to give it a go.'[LNB]
