Oxford United boss Karl Robinson told the Oxford Mail last year how reported Derby County defensive target Robert Dickie is quick, talented and great in the air.
According to Football Insider, Derby are keen on Dickie ahead of the January transfer window.
The Rams are on the lookout for a new central defender to replace Richard Keogh who was sacked following an off-field incident which left him out injured for over a year.
Dickie is highly rated in League One. And Robinson feels he has all the ingredients to succeed as the Oxford boss lavished praise on him after a game last season.
I know he’s quick, I know he’s talented, I know he’s great in the air, but I need to see what he’s like when he’s on the floor and see how he stands up. In the second half I thought Rob Dickie was magnificent.
MORE DERBY STORIES
Derby are said to be among several teams eyeing a move for Dickie.
The 23-year-old came through the ranks at Reading. However, after struggling to break in at the Berkshire club, he moved on to Oxford United in January 2018.
His current deal with Oxford expires in the summer of 2021.
Dickie has been instrumental during the U’s 11-game unbeaten run. He has played 23 times for the League One club this season as Oxford eye promotion.
Scouts at many clubs have reportedly watched him at the Kassam Stadium this season. But Derby may hold an advantage over their fellow suitors.
The Rams are extremely light on central defenders. Current duo Curtis Davies and Craig Forsyth are both in their 30s and are out of contract at the end of the season.
Also see: Derby boss confirms club seek January deal for talented U21 international
Also see: Derby must follow Bristol City’s £13m lead as PL side reportedly eye Rams talent