Source: Team_Talk
Bates reveals Toon bid for Beckford
Beckford, who has been the face of this season's FA Cup, is out of contract in the summer and available on a free transfer.[LNB]The 26-year-old enhanced his credentials with a brace in Leeds' 2-2 draw at Spurs at the weekend, following on from his winner against Manchester United at Old Trafford earlier this month.[LNB]However Beckford is so crucial to Leeds' League One promotion bid that Simon Grayson claimed at the weekend it would take an offer in excess of £10million for them to consider selling the striker this month.[LNB]It comes as little surprise, then, that Newcastle were knocked back in their £1.8million offer for Beckford. Bates admits the player himself was keen on a move to St James' Park, but the club will have the final say on his future if he leaves before the summer.[LNB]"I have always said the Beckford decision was down to Simon Grayson," Bates told The Telegraph. [LNB]"We could have picked up a quick £1.8million cash from Newcastle for Beckford's transfer and Becks wanted to go. [LNB]"But Simon has always said he would do what was best for Leeds United and that means getting promotion, which is what we are doing. [LNB]"I am not particularly impressed with his (Beckford's) agent but as long as Jermaine stays on the pitch and scores goals I think all the fans will be happy and that is the important thing - the fans being happy in the short and long term."[LNB][LNB] FA Cup 09/10 Win Outright: Leeds 66/1
