Derby County frontrunners in race to sign Portuguese talent
Published:
It’s been another frustrating season for supporters of Derby County, with the Rams once again falling short in their bid for promotion.
But there could be some good news for fans this summer, with the East Midlands outfit now frontrunners to sign talented Portuguese defender Frederico Venancio.
The 24-year-old has impressed for homeland outfit Vitoria Setubal this term, captaining the side who currently boast the best defensive record outside of the league’s top 10.
As well as impressing at the back, he’s also proved himself a talent at the other end of the field. The Setubal native has netted four times this term, including a crucial goal in the 1-1 draw with Benfica – their first point in five visits to Estadio da Luz.
Physically strong, adept with both feet, and a classy passer of the ball, he’s got all the attributes to be a success in the Championship. And it’s not just Derby who’ve taken note, with Leeds United also reported to be keen on the left-back.
However, right now it’s the Rams who look most likely to secure the defender’s signature, and they could do so at something of a bargain price.
Venancio is currently valued at £1.7m on Transfermarkt.co.uk, with his contract due to expire in May 2018. And if Gary Rowett can secure his services for a figure around that amount, you’d have to consider it a superb bit of business.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
