Derby are reportedly willing to listen to offers for the Republic of Ireland international, and Leeds should monitor the situation closely.
Derby’s Richard Keogh
While Leeds United’s managerial situation rumbles on, something happening at one of their Championship rivals in Derby County should be something that the Whites keep an eye on, as – amongst others – Richard Keogh has been made available for transfer, as reported by the Telegraph.
The Rams, now managed by Gary Rowett, have made a £1m bid for Liverpool’s Andre Wisdom and are reportedly happy to listen to offers for Will Hughes, Cyrus Christie, Tom Ince and Keogh – but it’s the 30-year-old centre back Leeds should be watching closely.
Sam Gallagher of Blackburn Rovers in action with Richard Keogh of Derby County
Following reports from Radio Yorkshire that defender Kyle Bartley – who excelled on loan at Leeds last year – will follow former Whites boss Garry Monk to Middlesbrough, Leeds will be in the market for a new centre half, and Keogh could be that man.
Ever since Keogh inadvertently assisted Bobby Zamora in the 90th minute during the 2014 play-off final – which saw Queens Park Rangers defeat the Rams 1-0 – his reputation with Derby fans has never really recovered, and a fresh start could be the best thing for all parties concerned.
Derby County’s Richard Keogh and Newcastle United’s Dwight Gayle in action
Keogh still made 48 appearances in all competitions for Derby last season – all of which were starts – so it isn’t like he’s a player on the fringes looking for a move, and someone with that Championship experience and knowhow could represent a good piece of business for Leeds.
Obviously a lot depends on who’s brought in as manager of Leeds, as each manager has their own style, but considering he could be available for a reasonable fee and has plenty left in the tank, with both domestic and international experience to boot, Leeds could do a lot worse than Keogh.
Derby’s Richard Keogh in action with Aston Villa’s Ross McCormack
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