Derby County face competition from Sunderland for Joe Ledley, according to the print edition of The Mirror (Friday 24th November, page 74), reported via HITC Sport.

Joe Ledley is currently at Derby County having signed a short term deal earlier in the season but his contract expires at the end of December.

This makes the experienced midfielder a free agent during the January transfer window.

Derby County are keen to extend the Wales international's deal after he has impressed in his eight outings for the Rams this season.

Gary Rowett's men are yet to lose when Ledley has been in the side.

But Derby will be rivalled by Sunderland.

Sunderland's new manager Chris Coleman is desperate to improve his squad and lift them away from the bottom of the Championship table.

He has identified Ledley as a perfect addition, having worked with him during his time as Wales manager.

The 30-year-old has plenty of experience under his belt, having Cardiff City, Celtic and Crystal Palace in his career prior to his summer switch to Pride Park.

With 76 Wales caps to his name, the central midfielder has also amassed over 500 club games in his career.

Sunderland will now look to beat Derby to Ledley's signing.

The Verdict

Derby probably seems like a much more preferable option for Ledley at the moment.

He is starting to settle in at Pride Park and has turned in some good displays for Rowett, who is an admirer of Ledley.

Although he might fancy a reunion with Chris Coleman, it is unlikely that he will trade his position with 7th place Derby to join bottom of the league Sunderland.

Derby and Sunderland fans - Who will win the race for Ledley? Let us know below...