Leeds striker Beckford to join Everton in summer?
Leeds United striker Jermaine Beckford looks set to join Everton at the end of the season after manager Simon Grayson intimated that a pre-contract agreement is in place.
Beckford had been a target for Newcastle United, with the Championship leaders reportedly having several bids for the striker turned down by Leeds and his contract ends in the summer meaning he can leave on a free at the end of the current campaign.
The striker recently withdrew a request to leave Elland Road, but Grayson has suggested that a deal is in place between Beckford and the Toffees for the end of the season, although maintained he may yet choose to move elsewhere.
"Pre-contract agreements aren't binding, so both parties could pull out at any time," said Grayson in the Sun. "If he bangs in another 20 goals, there might be bigger teams than Everton coming in for him."
Reports also claim Leeds have agreed an undisclosed fee with League One rivals Southend United for striker Lee Barnard to replace Beckford.
