Will Leeds keep Beckford?

By Rich Baggott
August 7 2009

With just over 24 hours to go until Leeds kick of the 2009/2010 Football season, Leeds fans are hoping (and in some cases praying) that striker, Jermain Beckford will still be a Leeds player when the first ball is kicked agaisnt Exeter. Beckford has only one year left on his contract and was transfer listed by the club at the end of last season but removed from the list during pre-season.

Manager, Simon Grayson has been vocal in his support of Beckford and sees the striker as indispensable to the club at the moment. He admits that Leeds risk losing the player on a free transfer at the end of the season if Leeds do not win promotion but is hopeful that early form and progress might convince the player to sign an extended contract.

Meanwhile the winner of last seasons Golden Boot award has been subject of much speculation, especially in recent days, as teams up and down the country look to conclude their transfer activity before the season starts. Earlier this week there were rumours of a bid by West Brom, supported by an alarming drop in betting odds of the striker moving to them. Several other championship clubs are also believed to be interested.

Ken Bates, speaking on Tuesday following the sale of Delph did state he would be sitting down with Beckford and his agent again t PLAYERS - Jermaine Beckford celebrating in Yellow strip his week to discuss a renewed offer of contract however there has been no further information from the chairman or the club.

Whilst Beckford and his goals are crucial, there will come a time where the right price could see Leeds having no option but to sell him to avoid the 'Bosman' scenario and with the transfer window extending until the end of the month, even if Beckford is here tomorrow, it does not mean he will remain a Leeds player all season.

If Leeds do not get off to a good start and are not pushing for promotion by Christmas, it is also almost inevitable that Beckford will go for a reduced price in the January window to allow the club to recoup some cash.