Kevin Kyle has emerged as a transfer target for MLS side Toronto FC, who are managed by former Scotland striker Maurice Johnston. The Kilmarnock captain is out of contract at the end of the season and has been identified by Johnston as a player who could make a big impact in North America.
Jim Jefferies signed Kyle on an 18-month contract in January 2008 and the move proved beneficial for both parties. The striker made an immediate impact last season and was the catalyst for an improved second half of the season and eighth place finish. The player has been rejuvenated in Ayshire and made his return to the Scotland squad after a seven year absence for national team’s last match in Wales.
However, Jefferies was aware that Kyle intended to us regular football as a showcase for his talents and the striker had talked openly about wanting to try again in England after a difficult spell in the Championship earlier in his career. Kyle is Kilmarnock’s top earner on around £2,000 per week but would be certain to earn more at a bigger club.
Toronto could be prepared to double the hitman’s salary. The Canadian side are looking to improve on last season in the MLS where they finished fifth in the Eastern conference, three points off a place in the play-offs.
Kyle may consider a move to the MLS but may be aware that, despite the prevalence of Scottish coaches and managers, players have not always enjoyed success in the league. Kenny Deuchar had an unproductive spell at Real Salt Lake, while Tam McManus left Colorado Rapids after one season due to a contract dispute.
Speaking last month, Kyle reiterated his desire to prove a point by returning to England, meaning he may resist Toronto’s advances in the hope of an offer from elsewhere.
“I’ve got a short-term deal at Kilmarnock and, if I do well for Scotland, people will obviously be watching and I could maybe put myself in the shop window to go somewhere else,” he said in November.
“I’m a player who wants to play at the highest possible level I can and I want to win things and achieve things. I’ve got that drive and ambition back. If I can do well for Scotland, that’s a great step and an added boost.
“I know that I had a bad time at Coventry in the Championship and I would like to get back there and prove that I was good enough. I’d like to go back there and prove a point and prove to myself that I am capable of going down to the Championship and scoring goals.”
