Derby County could be in for an interesting few weeks ahead in the January transfer window, with it recently being claimed that off-the-field trouble could lead to the club being forced to cash-in on some of their younger players to raise funds. 

One of those to be linked with a move away from the club is Louie Sibley, with the 19-year-old being a reported target for Leeds United this month.

Sibley has made 18 first-team appearances in all competitions this term for the Rams, and has chipped in with two assists for Derby, as they struggle to stay afloat in the Championship after their opening 23 matches in this year's campaign.

A move to Elland Road could be a tempting proposition for the youngster though, with Marcelo Bielsa already showing in the past that he's willing to give younger players a chance in his first-team squad.

Speaking in an interview with Football Insider, former Derby coach Kevin Phillips felt as though Sibley would be tempted by a move to Leeds, which would give him the opportunity to work for Marcelo Bielsa at Elland Road.

"100 per cent. Louie would be tempted by the prospect of working under Marcelo Bielsa.

"If I was in his shoes, and I was getting linked with Leeds, and you see the way that they play and develop young players – I would consider it. I would certainly look at it.

"It will be very interesting to see what happens with this one in the summer."

Sibley and his Derby team-mates are set to return to action on Tuesday evening, when they take on promotion-chasing AFC Bournemouth, in what is certain to be a tricky test for Wayne Rooney's side.

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The Verdict:

I have to agree with Phillips here.

Derby are going to be in for a difficult few weeks it seems, as they look to find funds before the conclusion of this month's transfer window.

Sibley is one of their most valuable players at this moment in time, especially given how regularly he's featured for the club's first-team so early into his career.

Leeds are a team that have been heading in the right direction under Marcelo Bielsa's management