According to Sussex Live, reported Derby County target Haydon Roberts could be set for a loan move with Leeds United failing with an approach in September.
The Brighton and Hove Albion defender has plenty of competition for places.
The Seagulls have started with Lewis Dunk, Adam Webster and fellow Leeds target Ben White as their three centre-backs, picking up three points from four games.
But with Joel Veltman and Dan Burn also on the books, Roberts isn’t expected to feature much, while regular playing time elsewhere will benefit his development.
A report by the Telegraph in the summer claimed Derby and Brentford are keen on him.
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And now, Sussex Live suggests a loan move to the EFL is on the cards after Brighton rejected an approach from Leeds to sign him permanently last month (the Athletic).
The transfer window closed on October 5 at 11pm, meaning Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds are unable to sign Roberts should they wish until the January transfer window.
A domestic window, however, remains open until October 16. This allows top-flight sides to still deal with EFL clubs, with 18-year-old Roberts tipped for a loan out.
The Daily Mail call Hayden Roberts a ‘young leader’ with big potential. Already rated at England U19 level, the Brighton man has a big future ahead of him.
Derby already have one Brighton defender on loan in Matthew Clarke.
The former Portsmouth man re-joined the Rams on another season-long loan deal following his successful spell last term where he won the club’s POTY award.
While Derby have been leaky at the back this term, the club have Mike te Wierik, Andre Wisdom, Curtis Davies, George Evans and Craig Forsyth as fellow centre-backs.
If finances are tight ahead of the October 16 deadline, then Phillip Cocu’s side would benefit more from adding a new striker rather than another defensive option.
Also see: Report: Derby and Boro eye deal for 28-cap international after failed Bielsa approach
Also see: Report: Derby and Owls rival Championship clubs for top-flight player with ‘tremendous ability’