With a couple of signings already made by new manager Gary Rowett, it’s been reported that he’s turning his attention now to defence to bolster Stoke City’s backline ahead of the coming 2018/19 Championship campaign.
The Mirror have reported in their transfer ticker page that Rowett could be tempted to return to Pride Park for centre half Curtis Davies.
GR hopes to bring in a centre-half he can trust in the Championship as doubts linger about Bruno Martins Indi’s future at Stoke City.
Derby captain Curtis Davies is understood to be among those on the manager’s list as he readies his squad for a rigorous season ahead
(Sentinel)— Stoke Loud & Proud (@StokeLoudProud) June 13, 2018
He knows the area well having spent time at the trio of West Bromwich Albion, Aston Villa and Birmingham City before going slightly farther afield to Derby. He even had a loan spell at Leicester.
With their new manager Frank Lampard keen to stamp his mark on the squad, Davies could be surplus to requirements one year into his two-year deal and already knowing him from their time at the club the 33-year-old is a sensible punt for speculation.
They believe a fee of £2.5million will be enough to secure the deal as Derby need to raise money first this season.
For fans, he’d certainly be a good replacement for Bruno Martins Indi with his future in doubt following our relegation, but ideally, we’d be able to team both of them up and really have some competition for places alongside others.
Definitely have Davies
— Andrew Espley (@espo161981) June 13, 2018
Bruno is the best CB at the club! I hope GR keeps him
— Jack (@StokeCity65) June 13, 2018
Let's poach half the Derby team! ????
— Chris Hollins (@CJHollins84) June 13, 2018
Curtis Davies will arrive shortly and I’m not sure that signals BMI leaving either
— Russell Dutton ???????????????????????????????????? (@RussellDutton) June 13, 2018
If these players hearts aren't in it for us and they want go for bigger money then get rid gr .goaaaaaarrrrn stoke
— Pete ,keep the faith (@PeterKe08187942) June 14, 2018
Certainly, from Rowett’s point of view, he wouldn’t be the first manager to arrive at a club and return for a player or two that knows him and his methods to ease changes through an existing dressing room, so it could have a double benefit.
