This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

New Derby County manager Phillip Cocu faces a battle if he wishes to sign Arsenal midfielder Krystian Bielik with West Brom, Middlesbrough and Brentford all keen on the 21-year-old, according to a report in The Telegraph.

Bielik is considered not ready for first team selection at Arsenal, but the Gunners will attempt to get him to sign a contract extension, however if that fails, they would rather that the Polish U-21 international leaves on a permanent transfer, the Telegraph confirms.

So would Bielik prove to be a good addition at Pride Park?

Sam Rourke

"He'd be a top signing for Derby.

"Bielik showcased last season at Charlton how good he really can be, and he was such a fundamental cog in Lee Bowyer's promotion winning side.

"Operating as either a defensive midfielder or centre-back at the Addicks, Bielink shone with his tough tackling, physical nature, though it wasn't just the ugly part of the game that he excelled at, his passing range and ability was commendable.

"He'd be a very handy signing for Cocu, as he is a player that comes with versatility, and can be utilised in both midfield and defence.

Ned Holmes

"Yes, he would be a good addition to the squad.

"Bielik is a versatile player who is comfortable in both central defense and defensive midfield, as he has shown throughout his career.

"Cocu already has a number of options in defensive midfield and there would likely be only room for one defensive player in the 4-3-3 formation that the Dutchman is understood to prefer.

"After seeing Fikayo Tomori return to Chelsea at the start of the summer following the completion of his loan, Richard Keogh and Curtis Davies are the only central defenders in the Derby squad.

"Bielik would be some well-needed defensive reinforcements for the new Derby boss, either on loan or on a permanent deal."

Kealan Hughes

"Bielik would be a coup for Derby given the interest in him from elsewhere in the Championship.

"He is a different type of defender to Fikayo Tomori, whom he would likely replace, but he has all the attributes to succeed in the Championship, having impressed in League One last season.

"It is also an indication that Cocu wants to stick to Derby's passing philosophy. Bielik is brilliant at bringing the ball out of defence, both with his dribbling ability and his range of long passing - and he could start a number of attacks last season.

"Last season he helped Charlton concede just 22 goals in the 31 games he played, and playing alongside the experienced

Richard Keogh should help the Rams keep a number of clean sheets and finish in the play-offs once again."