Derby County are bracing themselves for some intense interest in Nathan Byrne.

Reports from the Daily Record have claimed that Scottish giants Celtic are ready to step up their interest in the defender by making an enquiry about his circumstances.

The 29-year-old is a key player for Wayne Rooney's side but with just 12 months remaining on his contract at Pride Park it means that the club could be tempted to cash in.

If Celtic did complete a move then it would certainly have a big impact on Rooney's plans for the season ahead.

Here are two potential knock-on effects that he must consider.

 

 

A reduced fee

Nathan Byrne is a big player for Derby County and so losing him would be a big blow.

What's even worse in this scenario is that his contract situation means that the Rams are somewhat vulnerable when it comes to approaches due to him moving into the last 12 months of his deal.

That means that Celtic may well fancy their chances of signing the player on the cheap, otherwise Derby risk losing him for nothing next summer.

Limited ability to sign a replacement

This is a big problem for Derby County.

The club's financial issues mean that they're restricted in terms of what signings they can make this summer, and Nathan Byrne leaving would only emphasise that.

Derby aren't in a strong position to sign a replacement this summer and so surely that will be a consideration when it comes to considering this deal.