Derby County launch transfer approach for Chelsea star wanted by Middlesbrough & Blackburn Rovers | OneFootball

Derby County are eyeing up a move for the Chelsea defender.

Chelsea have held talks with Derby County over a loan move for Alfie Gilchrist.

John Eustace’s side are gearing up to kick off their Championship campaign with a trip to Stoke City on August 9.

The Rams have enjoyed a brilliant transfer window, recruiting the likes of Patrick Agyemang, Rhian Brewster and Carlton Morris.

Derby County eyeing up move for Chelsea defender Alfie Gilchrist

Derby aren’t done yet however, and are looking to add more quality to their defence.

According to Telegraph reporter Mike McGrath via X, Chelsea and the Rams are discussing a deal that would take Gilchrist to Pride Park.

It was previously rumoured earlier this summer that the Premier League outfit were willing to let the full-back exit Stamford Bridge on a permanent deal, but that doesn’t seem to be the case in this scenario.

The 21-year-old spent last season on loan with Sheffield United, where he made 30 league appearances for the Blades en route to the Championship play-off final.

He fell out of favour under Chris Wilder as the year progressed, partly due to an ankle injury, but could be handed a new lease of life by Eustace at Pride Park.

Gilchrist came through the academy system with Chelsea, before making his debut for the Blues in 2022.

Middlesbrough were previously linked with a move for the young defender, according to Sky Sports, but that interest will likely have been cooled following Boro’s acquisition of Callum Brittain from Blackburn Rovers - who have also been credited with an interest in Gilchrist this summer.

Derby were also reportedly keen on securing the former Rovers full-back’s signature, but after missing out on that deal, have turned their attention to Gilchrist.

Given that Chelsea were previously reportedly willing to let the prospect leave the club permanently, it isn’t unrealistic to believe that a successful loan spell with the Rams could turn into a full transfer later down the line.

Alfie Gilchrist would be another smart signing for Derby County

When John Eustace was brought to Derby earlier this year, it was under the promise that he would be in control of a more ambitious project than Blackburn Rovers.

That has proven to be true this summer, with the Rams conducting some impressive transfer business and outlaying a sizeable amount on transfer fees.

According to Football Insider, Bobby Clark is close to moving to Pride Park, and if Gilchrist is next, Derby would soon enjoy one of the most exciting squads in the division.

Brimming with potential, Gilchrist proved himself to be a capable Championship operator with Sheffield United last term and therefore wouldn’t need to adapt to the division.

Eustace has previously shown to be a dab hand at harnessing young talent and developing them, which could play into both Derby County and Gilchrist’s hands next term.