Everton Eyeing Billy

Everton are mulling over a move for Crewe’s Billy Jones. Having already sent scouts to a number of Crewe’s games this season, David Moyes was at Prenton Park on Tuesday night to watch the youngster.

Having signalled his intent to see out his contract at Crewe and leave this summer, Jones has also been linked with Man City, Cardiff and Derby. Cardiff’s enquiry was rebuffed by Dario, who suggested the Welsh outfit couldn’t afford the youngster, though no other official interest has been registered of late. Reports of a £1.5m bid from Derby on Monday have since been denied, whilst cash-stricken Man City appear to have adequate cover at the back.

Given that Jones only turns 20 in March, any club interested in securing his signature this summer will still have to pay compensation, whilst Dario Gradi has stated that the youngster won’t leave cheaply this month. Jones has been at the club since 12, and has featured for England at most levels upto the Under 20s.

Everton’s attempts to sign Joey Barton were unsuccessful last week, leaving David Moyes with money to spend. However, Moyes has declared himself happy to keep hold of that money until the summer unless the right players are available at the right prices. Everton have had great success with signings from the Football League in recent seasons, with Joleon Lescott, Tim Cahill and Andy Johnson all impressing.