Derby County are interested in signing goalkeeper Joe Wildsmith, according to journalist Alan Nixon.

The 26-year-old shot stopper has caught the attention of those at Pride Park as the club looks to find a new first choice between the sticks.

The Rams need to rebuild their squad ahead of their first campaign in League One following relegation last season.

With Wayne Rooney now having also departed as manager, Liam Rosenior has stepped in to take over the role of the team’s head coach.

The former defender is said to be keen on bringing in the ex-Sheffield Wednesday player.

Wildsmith is now available as a free agent having had his contract with the Owls expire at the end of last season.

The goalkeeper rejected a new offer from the club and is now looking for a chance at a fresh start at a new club.

Wildsmith was second choice at Hillsborough, only playing three league games for Darren Moore’s side last campaign as the team finished 4th in the table.

 

 

He has previously played for Barnsley and Alfreton Town before signing with Wednesday in 2015.

The Englishman has never been able to break into the side consistently since signing for the club, so will now be hoping to become first choice elsewhere.

The Verdict

This would be a solid signing for Derby, who are currently at a point where bringing in bodies to pad out the team is the most important part of their summer.

It will be a difficult campaign in the third division, with the recent loss of Rooney only compounding the problems at the club.

With the takeover of the club still yet to be finalised, bringing in free agents players where they can will be the best business Derby supporters can hope for.

But Wildsmith is experienced and capable of competing at this level, so this should be a good start to any potential incomings for the club this summer.