Everton are bracing themselves for a number of bids from the likes of Manchester United as the teen sensation could be on his way out of Goodison Park in the summer.
Rodwell, who at only 18 years old is seen as a key member of the Everton team after David Moyes has employed him as a defensive midfielder in Everton’s injury struck side. Injuries aside Rodwell has shown he is no squad player with 24 appearances this season and some standout performances for the Merseyside club. The talented scouser who can also play centre back showed just what he can do at last summer’s Under 21’ European Championships after being singled out by manager Stuart Pearce as one of the country’s star performers in their route to the final. Reports earlier this season even suggested Rodwell could sneak into Fabio Capello's thinking for the World Cup in South Africa with major fitness doubts over Owen Hargreaves. It appears though Manchester United is preparing an attractive offer for the youngster.
Having made his Everton debut at the tender age of 16yrs old in an old UEFA cup match in 2008, Rodwell has gone from strength to strength with Everton tying the player down to a five year deal last summer. Yet this is unlikely to ward off interest from Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal who will test Everton’s resolve in the summer. Rodwell whilst playing the holding midfield role for Everton can play more adeptly at centre back with the 18yr old being hailed by some as the new Rio Ferdinand. Interest from Sir Alex Ferguson is well documented and could be seen as Manchester United’s long term replacement for the aging Ferdinand.
What is clear though for the moment is Rodwell’s devotion to boyhood club Everton. 'I don’t read anything into the speculation. All I’m focusing on is the next game. I’ve got to be ready to start the next game and be in the manager’s thoughts. I really am happy playing for Everton.’ The boy wonder told The Times
With Chelsea also monitoring the players progression we could see a transfer war break out between Chelsea and Manchester United over the summer with United prepared to offer around £10 million. What is clear is that Rodwell seems to be held in high regard by all. In a recent survey 14 out of the 20 Premier League managers identified Rodwell as the player who would take the Premier League by storm this season. High praise when you consider the furor that surrounds Arsenal youngster Jack Wilshere as this country’s brightest prospect.
It appears that Rodwell will be the centre of a summer scramble with the big guns in the Premier League each vying for his signature, yet the player is still only 18 yrs old, a few more years at Everton playing consistently may just be what the lad needs for development. We have seen too many young players join big clubs too early in their careers and become stagnant at lack of chances and playing time. Yet Rodwell could break that mould, if David Moyes can keep Rodwell this summer it could be one of his crowning achievements.