Derby County have been linked with a move for Bangladesh midfielder Hamza Choudhury as the transfer deadline approaches.
The 28 year old could leave Leicester City after attracting interest from several clubs.
Leicester manager Russell Martin confirmed that Choudhury is among the players who have received interest.
Choudhury was not included in Leicester’s squad for their Carabao Cup match against Ipswich Town. Leicester lost the game 3-1 at Portman Road.
His absence came after reports linked him with a move to Derby.
Derby want to add more players to their squad before the transfer window closes next week.
Martin said Leicester have not received a firm offer for Choudhury yet. However, he admitted that there is plenty of interest in the midfielder.
“Hamza is another one, like Wout, Couli and Stephy who has lots of interest,” Martin said.
“Nothing concrete yet, but I need to really prepare with the guys we think are definitely going to be here.”
Martin said he would be happy to keep Choudhury if a move does not happen.
“If he stays, he stays, great. And if not, it means it’s a good deal for him and for us,” he said.
Martin also praised Choudhury’s attitude in training. But he said transfer talks can make it difficult for players to fully focus on matches.
“When I talk about energy, Hamza is a great guy, a top guy. But sometimes, when you are not all in because maybe there’s interest elsewhere, maybe you think, ‘oh, this is going to happen’,” Martin said.
He made it clear that Choudhury and the other players linked with moves have caused no problems at the club.
“They’ve been amazing, so I’m not criticising anyone. They’ve honestly been so good in the training ground,” he said.
Choudhury has not started a match for Leicester since their relegation to League One this season.
However, he has made three appearances from the bench. He came on in the 34th minute during Leicester’s defeat against Burton Albion at the weekend.
Derby already have Lewis Travis and Alex Mowatt as options in defensive midfield. Choudhury would bring plenty of experience to the squad if the club completes a deal.
He has played in both the Premier League and Championship during his career.
Choudhury has made 166 appearances for Leicester. He was part of the squad that won the FA Cup in 2021. He also won the Community Shield with the club later that year.
He added another trophy when Leicester won the Championship title in the 2023-24 season.
His future could now be decided before the transfer window closes, with Derby among the clubs interested in signing him.
