Derby hoping to speed up contract negotiations with Gary Rowett amid interest from Stoke.
Gary Rowett, manager of Derby County, looks on during the Sky Bet Championship match against Sheffield United.
Rowett is being considered as a potential candidate to succeed Mark Hughes as boss at the bet365 Stadium following the Welshman’s sacking on Saturday (January 6), along with Republic of Ireland’s Martin O’Neill. Ryan Giggs is not in the running at the moment.
Republic of Ireland’s manager Martin O’Neill gestures on the touchline during the FIFA World Cup 2018 qualifying football match, second leg, against Denmark.
The Rams were already in discussions with the 43-year-old over a new deal with him having guided the club to a current position of second in the Championship.
Yet now they want to get it confirmed quickly, with Rowett having 18 months remaining on the contract he signed with Derby when he arrived at Pride Park 10 months ago.
Mark Hughes reacts during The Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Coventry City and Stoke City.
It is understood it will cost the Potters around £1.7m in compensation were they to tempt the former Birmingham City chief to take over from Hughes.
However, Rowett’s current employers will reject any approach made by Stoke as they look to continue their promotion push to the Premier League under his stewardship.
Stoke City fans hold up their Mark Hughes out banner during the The Emirates FA Cup Third Round match against Coventry City.
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