Derby County are interested in the possible transfer of former Liverpool star Martin Skrtel according to Turkish publication Star.
The former Red defender was somewhat of an Anfield hero in his days on Merseyside and new Rams boss Phillip Cocu wants to bring Skrtel back to English football.
The Slovakian’s contract expired with Turkish side Fenerbahce on July 1st and is now available as a free transfer and Cocu wants to make a huge statement by signing the centre back.
The new Derby boss has been welcomed by the supporters despite the disappointment of losing Frank Lampard, largely due to his experience and impressive CV.
Cocu has previously been manager at Feyenoord and worked with Skrtel earlier in their careers and he is keen to reunite with the 34-year-old.
The Slovakian captain is believed to be wanted to replace Fikayo Tomori, who returned to parent club Chelsea after winning Derby’s Player of the Year award last season.
The sticking point in this deal could be Skrtel’s wages as despite him being available as a free transfer, he would still require a hefty wage packet.
However, his experience and leadership could prove crucial to Derby as they look to push for promotion from the Championship to the Premier League once again this season.
It may not be easy for Cocu to secure the signing of Skrtel however, with Rangers also interested and their boss Steven Gerrard, who previously played with Skrtel at Liverpool, being very interested in the defender.
It is reported that talks have already taken place but the Glaswegian side could wait until they arrive back from the Algarve as Gerrard oversees Rangers’ pre-season training camp as he prepares his squad for their Europa League first qualifying round clash.
