Derby County look set for a full revamp of their midfield following promotion.
Derby County are set for a return to the Championship next season, but are likely to make a number of changes to the squad that came second in the third tier.
The Rams have parted ways with midfielders Conor Hourihane, Korey Smith and Max Bird, while Ebou Adams returned to Cardiff City following his successful loan spell.
The club have already brought back former academy star Ben Osborn, who was released by Sheffield United at the end of the season.
The 29-year-old was arguably the one that got away, having been released by Derby after just one year.
He went onto join rivals Nottingham Forest before joining the Blades, where he won promotion to the Premier League.
The Rams will be delighted to have re-signed Osborn this summer, while they could also be keeping an eye on another of their academy flops at the Euro 2024 tournament.
Timi Max Elsnik is wanted by host of European clubs
Timi Max Elsnik joined Derby’s academy in 2015 and bagged 12 goal contributions in 38 games for their U21 side.
He went onto make only three senior appearances and was sent out on loan to Swindon, Mansfield and Northampton, before returning to Slovenia with NK Olimpija Ljubljana ion 2021.
The captain has racked up 27 goals and 19 appearances in 158 matches from midfield, as well as earning himself in the Slovenia national team.
He has started all three of their group matches at the Euros, including the 0-0 draw against England last time out, while he was named in the Team of Group Stage Matchday Two after their draw against Serbia.
His impressive performances have really caught the eye in Germany, with the Sunday Mirror (page 77) reporting that Sevilla have expressed interest in signing him as they reignite their form after previously winning seven Europa League titles.
Meanwhile, the Daily Mail have reported that the likes of Southampton, Leicester, Lazio and Lyon are also eager to snap him up after the Euros.
Derby County have to keep looking forwards
The 26-year-old has a £5.5 million asking price on his head, showing his significant rise since leaving Pride Park five years ago.
Elsnik’s record in front of goal with Derby U21s surely should have sent some tails wagging, while he would have been a very solid player to have to bring into their squad ahead of their Championship return next season.
It’s a move that the club may regret, but one that they will hopefully not be too fussed about if they can bolster their own midfield and remain in the second tier beyond next term.
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