Journalist Alan Nixon has shut down speculation of Jordan Rhodes joining Derby County via Twitter following reports of a transfer this summer.
The Rams were reported to be leading the chase for the Huddersfield Town forward a few weeks ago, as the 33-year-old has fallen out of favour in Neil Warnock’s side. The striker made 34 appearances last season for the Terriers, scoring five goals as the club secured safety in the second division at the expense of Reading, Wigan and Blackpool.
The forward is expected to leave the Yorkshire club this summer before the transfer window closes next month. The 33-year-old has started just one game since Neil Warnock took charge of the club and was also left out of the side’s pre-season training tour due to an unspecified injury.
But Nixon has responded to speculation on Twitter, suggesting that the transfer has never been likely to happen. Nixon also responded to questions about whether the forward would leave the Championship side this summer, stating it would have to be “on his terms” with the contract Rhodes is on at the Terriers.
Attacking options have been a priority for Warnock this summer, and he has given forwards such as Kyle Hudlin opportunities this summer, but the club are still yet to sign a forward in the transfer market, with Warnock admitting they need one or two through the door. All these factors combined appear to put a number on Rhodes’ days at the Terriers.Â
Derby have been chasing a striker in the transfer market, and the Rams have already agreed on a return for Martyn Waghorn to Pride Park. The club have seen a loan bid for Michael Smith rejected by Sheffield Wednesday over the weekend, leaving them still hunting for another striker.
Writer’s View
Derby need a goalscorer in their team following the departure of last season’s top goalscorer David McGoldrick. They have two strikers through the door already, but it appears Paul Warne still feels he can add more to his attacking line. Despite this, it appears they may be once again moving on in that search for a striker.
