According to a report in the Lancashire Telegraph, Charlton Athletic’s Patrick Bauer is set to leave the club on a free transfer. With the player so highly rated, why aren’t Derby County attempting a deal?
The 26-year-old central defender was a standout in League One last year. He was among the division’s best centre-backs, and he came up with Charlton’s telling contribution when it mattered.
After a slow start to the season, Charlton won promotion to the Championship via the League One playoffs. The Addicks defeated Sunderland in the final at Wembley 2-1, thanks to a last-gasp Bauer winner.
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It was the perfect parting gift from the German defender as he seeks a move to a bigger club. The Lancashire Telegraph claim the Addicks have offered him a new deal. However, he is to walk away with his contract expiring amid interest from Preston North End and Blackburn Rovers.
The Lancashire duo stand to sign a real bargain. Derby, meanwhile, have barely been mentioned with bids for players in the British media and they are in danger of letting excellent deals pass them by.
Why Derby County should move for Patrick Bauer
The Rams must strengthen their squad this summer. Frank Lampard’s side have seen key players Mason Mount, Harry Wilson and Fikayo Tomori return to their parent clubs after successful loan deals.
Players such as Alex Pearce, David Nugent, Marcus Olsson, Ashley Cole and Efe Ambrose have left after their contracts expired. Moreover, Luke Thomas recently joined Barnsley while Jacob Butterfield and Nick Blackman could be released.
Derby’s squad is looking increasingly thin, especially at the back. Richard Keogh and Curtis Davies are the only senior recognised centre-backs available, with question marks over the latter’s fitness.
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Bauer is comfortable on the ball and loves the physical challenge. The former Stuttgart man would be a first-teamer considering Derby’s current squad, and he would help appease Financial Fair Play.