According to a report by the Daily Mail, Derby County are keen on Hamilton Academical’s Jamie Hamilton.
The report names the Rams, Everton, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Southampton and Norwich City as suitors. But who is the 17-year-old defender?
Here are five facts we know about the Hamilton prospect.
Likened to John Stones:
The Scottish youngster has been compared to Manchester City’s John Stones. The Daily Mail claim he is an elegant, ball-playing central defender.
Stones started out at Barnsley, before moving on to Everton and then City.
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How much is he worth?
The Daily Mail stated back in April that Hamilton Academical were anticipating bids of around £800,000. Now, more clubs have reportedly joined the hunt.
Hamilton has since starred for Scotland U17s. His price-tag has likely increased.
Is he a regular for Hamilton?
Hamilton broke through the first-team squad last season. He went on to make his Scottish Premiership debut last month and didn’t look out of place.
He is likely to feature more ahead of the January transfer window.
Who is in the frame to sign him?
Derby have been linked. However, the Rams are reportedly competing with Norwich City, Southampton, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Everton for his signature.
Everton have been monitoring his progress ahead of a possible January bid.
Could he be a good fit for Derby County?
Richard Keogh’s injury layoff is a big blow for the Rams. Curtis Davies, 34, and Matthew Clarke, on loan from Brighton, may not be at Pride Park beyond next summer.
Manager Phillip Cocu will need to start thinking about long-term options. Hamilton is a realistic option, and a move to the Championship could be ideal for his development.
Also see: Does boss’s update suggest unlucky Derby player could make permanent switch next summer?
Also see: Gary Rowett admits level of regret ditching Derby County for Stoke City.