Derby County have two big obstacles in the way of securing a deal for Asmir Begovic, with the player preferring a move to London and his wages an issue.

The Bournemouth stopper has fallen out of favour under Eddie Howe and spent the first half of the season with Azerbaijani champions Qarabag who had been competing in the Europa League.

However, he is back with the Cherries now and another move seems inevitable, with reports last month claiming the Rams were one of several clubs showing an interest in the ex-Stoke keeper.

But, it appears that a transfer to Pride Park is extremely unlikely, with The Athletic reporter Ryan Conway explaining two reasons why the Bosnian international wouldn't join.

"Begovic as I understand it is that he wants to move back to England but would prefer a move to London. Any deal taking him to Derby would be a loan move. Wages could be an issue."

Ben Hamer is the current first-choice for Derby having replaced Kelle Roos earlier in the season after the Dutchman struggled for form.

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The verdict

Begovic would be a clear upgrade on what Derby have right now, so this update is disappointing in that sense as he is the type of player they need to be targeting.

Having said that, he's not someone they should break their wage structure for and there are plenty of alternatives out there if they feel it's a position that needs addressing this month.

So, if a deal can't be reached then they just need to move on but it could be something that they revisit as the keeper could change his mind if other offers don't come through.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.