According to Football League World, Sheffield Wednesday have stepped up their intentions to sign reported Derby County target Akin Odimayo from Swindon Town.
Odimayo joined Swindon from Reading on a one-year deal last summer.
The 21-year-old defender impressed at League One level, making over 30 appearances.
A recent report in TEAMtalk claimed Derby, Sheffield Wednesday, Stoke City and Preston North End are all tracking him ahead of a potential summer move.
Swindon offered Odimayo a new contract as they released their retained list.
But the defender has stalled on signing a new deal, with Football League World now reporting how Wednesday and Doncaster Rovers are pushing ahead for his signature.
Swindon boss John Sheridan recently told the Swindon Advertiser why Derby and the Owls would be keen on Odimayo, despite saying he still has a lot to learn.
Wednesday’s relegation to League One has put in motion a squad rebuild. Signing young talent with plenty of potential appears the ideal way to start afresh.
Derby, meanwhile, are desperately short on defenders.
George Edmundson, Matt Clarke and Teden Mengi have all left after loan spells at Pride Park. Curtis Davies and Andre Wisdom, meanwhile, are out of contract.
Manager Wayne Rooney has called on the Rams to sort out their off-field issues so he can plan for next season. However, EFL charges still loom over the club.
Also see: Report: Derby youngster rejects contract offer, will leave club amid desire for first-team football
Also see: Report: Derby likely to sign ‘excellent’ player on loan after preserving Championship status