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. Rodwell has been offered a five-year deal at Everton, and according to the Daily Express, negotiations are now at an advanced stage 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. Moyes said: "I don't know where Rio started his career but I'm sure he played in midfield for a spell. "I think Jack Rodwell was outstanding again and he's a good boy who wants to keep improving. "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." 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. '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.'

Source: Telegraph