Derby County defender Jason Shackell is set to be axed this summer, according to a respected football journalist.

Journalist Alan Nixon is reporting that Derby County are willing to let Jason Shackell leave before the transfer deadline.

With just over two weeks left in the summer transfer window, Gary Rowett is keen to trim his squad.

Jason Shackell has been identified as one of the players that is seen as surplus to requirements.

As a result, the 33-year-old will be let go if they can find a potential suitor for him.

The 6ft 4in centre half is down the pecking order at Derby and behind the likes of Curtis Davies, Alex Pearce and Richard Keogh in Gary Rowett's preference.

Shackell, who is currently in his second spell at Derby, joined the Rams from Burnley in 2015 and played 50 games in his first season back at Pride Park.

However, his second spell was marred by injury and a loss of form, limiting him to just nine outings for Derby.

The veteran defender has amassed nearly 500 senior appearances during his career, having played over 130 games each for Norwich City and Burnley.

Shackell has also represented Wolves, Doncaster Rovers and Barnsley in his career.

Now he is set to leave Derby County and find his next club.

The Verdict

Jason Shackell is the fourth choice centre back at Derby County at the moment and Andre Wisdom or Chris Baird can always fill in if there are injuries.

The 33-year-old has lost his way a bit in the past year or so and Derby fans will not be too disappointed to see him leave, especially if they can demand a fee for his services.

Where he will go remains to be seen but the former Burnley man should have suitors in this division still.

Derby fans - What do you make of Shackell's potential exit? Let us know below...