The January window is always an important one for Championship clubs as they look to do deals that can help them achieve their goals by the end of the season.

And, it seems that one high-profile deal could be on the cards, with Manchester United's Phil Jones attracting interest from Derby County and Middlesbrough now that a move to Burnley seems unlikely.

The reports emerged over the past week and they claimed that the ex-England international is set to move in the New Year as he has little chance of breaking into the XI under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and that seems likely.

A host of centre-back options are ahead of him in the pecking order, with Jones realistically fifth or sixth choice at best at Old Trafford. Plus, his injury issues have struck again, with the former Blackburn man ruled out until December.

However, his £100,000 a week salary makes any deal for the player more complicated and obviously neither Championship club would be able to match that, or get anywhere it, so negotiations would have to take place.

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With Jones not needed by United, you would expect an agreement to be reached eventually but it leaves both sides vulnerable to any potential top-flight interest from the Premier League or abroad, as those at a higher level may pay a higher percentage of his wages.

Both Phillip Cocu and Neil Warnock will feel they are short on options in defence, so signing a centre-back could well be a priority for both, particularly if they both persist with a back three.

So, you would imagine that Jones will be a target but there will be a lot of work for either to do if they are to finalise this transfer.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.