There is never a good time to sell your most influential players.
And with Derby County still embroiled in a relegation battle, just four points off the bottom of the Championship table, the potential January sale of Jason Knight is the stuff nightmares are made of.
He may be a footballing baby at just 19 but the homegrown teenager is already one of the most influential, reliable and adaptable performers at Wayne Rooney’s disposal.
The Derby boss has spoken in glowing terms about Knight too, comparing Derby’s teen talisman to a younger version of himself.
And if Knight has even half Rooney’s talent, he will prove to be an inspired addition for one of the three Premier League clubs who have placed the Republic of Ireland international on their January hit-list.
The Irish Mirror report that West Ham United, Crystal Palace and Burnley are keen on arguably the most impressive young midfielder plying his trade outside the top flight.
With that long-awaited takeover still mired in uncertainty, February 1 cannot come soon enough for Derby fans.
Because, until those new owners take control, no one at Pride Park will be considered untouchable.
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