According to the Daily Mail, Derby County are keeping tabs on Charlton Athletic’s Lee Bowyer as a potential manager.
The report claims current Derby boss Frank Lampard is a serious contender to take the Chelsea job if Maurizio Sarri leaves.
Lampard, a former Chelsea midfielder, would get the right sort of backing at Stamford Bridge. While it is still early in his managerial career, not many are too surprised about the links.
Bowyer, meanwhile, guided Charlton to the Championship via the League One playoffs playing attractive football. His contract expires this summer, making him a potential cheap and worthwhile option for the Rams.
If Bowyer becomes the next Derby manager, here are three players he could target from the Addicks.
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Patrick Bauer:
Bauer was Charlton’s hero at Wembley, scoring the winning goal in the 2-1 win over Sunderland in injury time.
The talented central defender was a level above League One. At 26, he is a leader at the back and is comfortable on the ball, making him an ideal Rams transfer target.
Bauer’s contract at The Valley expires this summer, and he is expected to leave regardless.
Lyle Taylor:
Taylor topped Charlton’s scoring charts this past season with 25 goals in all competitions. The former AFC Wimbledon man is approaching his peak, having fired in 80 goals in the last four seasons.
At 29, Taylor would be a short-term option. However, he could provide valuable competition to Martyn Waghorn and Jack Marriott with both players struggling for fitness at times last term.
Joe Aribo:
Charlton’s prized asset, however, is Joe Aribo. The 22-year-old midfielder was a driving force for the Addicks during their promotion, scoring nine goals.
The midfielder gets around the pitch well, links play and provides an attacking threat. Aribo has his best years ahead of him, and he seems destined for a future in the Premier League.