Leeds and Newcastle have received a blow in their pursuit of Derby star Jason Knight. That is, after journalist Dean Jones told Give Me Sport that Knight is keen to remain at Derby, and work under Wayne Rooney.
Knight, 20, has thrown himself onto the radar of Premier League clubs after clocking up 100 appearances for Derby in all competitions, already. An Ireland international, Knight has scored 11 goals in that time.
That is, in a side fighting to avoid the drop. His versatility is likely to be eye-catching for Leeds and Newcastle, with Knight able to play as a central midfielder, a 10 or on the right or left wings. He has a contract until 2023.
The Times claim Leeds and Newcastle are keen, with Derby wanting £8million. If offers in that region are tabled, Derby may have to sell to save the club’s financial issues. But Jones reports that Knight wants to stay.
“Knight doesn’t actually want to leave Derby right now. So, even though it’s a good move for him, while Rooney’s there, I think he’s quite enjoying it,” transfer expert Jones told GMS, when asked about Knight’s future.
Jones on Knight: Leeds and Newcastle blow, a bargain at £8m
Both sides need additions in the middle of the park. Newcastle have a lack of quality and while Knight might not be an immediate improvement, he certainly offers quality from the bench – and will continue to grow.
At Leeds, he would thrive working under a manager like Marcelo Bielsa. With eight players currently out at Leeds through injury, there is a chance that Knight would get plenty of Premier League game time.
The two sides go face to face on Saturday in the Premier League – but an £8million move for Knight looks unlikely, given his stance on a move away from Derby and Rooney this month.
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