Derby County are keen on bolstering their defensive ranks this summer and Barnsley captain Marc Roberts is someone they should put at the top of their list.
Marc Roberts impressed for Barnsley in the Championship last season
Derby County have been heavily linked with Newcastle United centre-back Grant Hanley recently, but a move for Barnsley captain Marc Roberts could prove to be better value for money.
The Rams are rumoured to be leading the chase for the Magpies’ Scottish international. They are willing to pay £4 million for the 25-year-old but Newcastle are hoping to recoup the full £5.5 million they paid Blackburn Rovers to land his signature (Chronicle).
Grant Hanley has been linked with a move to Derby County recently
Hanley made just 10 appearances in the Championship in Newcastle’s title winning season and it looks highly unlikely that he will be able to force his way into the first team picture at St. James’ Park as Rafa Benitez targets new signings in this position.
Despite being having 162 Championship appearances under his belt, if the Rams are to sign Hanley then they may need to be patient with the Scotsman as he bids to rekindle the form he showed at Ewood Park.
Patience is something that is wearing increasingly thin amongst Derby supporters as they hope to see their side finally return to the Premier League and will expect any big money summer signing to hit the ground running.
Marc Roberts of Barnsley in action
And Barnsley skipper Marc Roberts could be just the man – he impressed for an overachieving Barnsley side in the Championship last season and his consistent performances has seen him linked with a £5 million move to Aston Villa, the Star reports.
If Barnsley are willing to listen to offers in this region for their star man then it would make sense for Derby to consider Roberts as a viable option if they unsuccessful in negotiating a better deal for Hanley.
The 26-year-old made 43 appearances in all competitions for his hometown club and if Derby did enter the race, they would be bidding for a player in form and keen to show his credentials in a side expected to push for promotion.
Barnsley signed Roberts from Halifax Town in 2015
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