Derby County were interested in bringing former Rotherham United defender Wes Harding to Pride Park this summer, according to journalist Darren Witcoop.
The 26-year-old is a free agent after rejecting a contract extension at the New York Stadium towards the end of last season and had previously been linked with a move to Luton Town and Coventry City.
Harding had been an ever-present in the Rotherham team since his arrival from Birmingham City in 2020 and played a key role in the Millers’ Championship survival last season. It was announced at the end of the campaign that he was to leave the club, with manager Matt Taylor expressing his regret at losing such an experienced member of his squad.
Speaking last month, Taylor said;
“He went under the radar in terms of how durable he was and how his availability was such a big strength for such a long period of time.
“He was in fantastic form when I first came to the club, hence why there was a contract offer put to him.
“I liked him and I really enjoy working with him. I wanted to work with him for longer. He’s a great character and we’ll miss him.”
What Has Been Said?
According to Darren Witcoop, Derby had explored the possibility of bringing Harding to the East Midlands, although it has emerged that he is now in talks with Championship side Millwall.
Posting on Twitter, the journalist said;
“Derby had looked at free agent Wes Harding after he left Rotherham but the defender is now in talks over joining Millwall.”
The Rams are on the lookout for proven League One talent as they look to push for promotion this season, and the Jamaican international certainly fits that bill.
He was a part of the Rotherham squad which clinched a place in England’s second tier in the 2021/22 season, having made 38 appearances as the Yorkshire side finished runners up behind Wigan Athletic.
Comfortable along a host of positions across the back line, it is easy to see why Harding is an attractive prospect.
Writer’s View
You can’t blame Derby for looking at a player of Wes Harding’s ability, but any move was always going to be ambitious at best.
The defender is easily a Championship level player and it was unlikely that he would be willing to drop a division having already rejected an offer to remain at Rotherham.
There could be more twists and turns in this scenario yet, but Millwall would be an excellent destination for the player.
Head of Writing
