How Derby County feel about signing Bobby Clark again as Rangers circle | OneFootball

Bobby Clark spent the season on loan at Derby County from RB Salzburg

Derby County narrowly missed out on earning a play-off place in just their second season back in the Championship.

The Rams finished eighth in the table, with a 2-1 loss to Sheffield United on the final day ending their promotion hopes.

John Eustace’s side initially led thanks to Sammie Szmodics’ early strike, but they were unable to hold on in the second half, and the club ultimately finished four points adrift of Hull City in sixth.

But Derby finished just one point clear of the relegation zone 12 months prior, with the team showing clear progress over the course of the year.

A key figure behind that positive step forward was Bobby Clark, who joined on loan in the summer from RB Salzburg.

However, the end of the campaign has signalled the end of his time at Pride Park, with uncertainty now surrounding his immediate future.

How Derby County feel about signing Bobby Clark

It has been reported by Football Insider that Derby are keen to complete a permanent deal for Clark this summer.

The midfielder will return to RB Salzburg, where a decision will be made over his future, with a number of clubs circling around his signature.

It’s understood that there is a queue of teams looking to sign the 21-year-old this summer, with an exit from the Austrian side on the cards.

Rangers have been linked with a deal for Clark, but it remains to be seen what his preference is at this stage.

Two factors that have been identified as potentially decisive include the potential cost of a deal with RB Salzburg, as well as the player’s own long-term ambitions within the game.

It’s hoped that the European club will be willing to cash in on Clark at a cut-rate price, which could bring Derby into contention for his signature.

The youngster proved himself as a top Championship talent during his loan spell at Pride Park, playing a key role in the team’s promotion push.

Clark featured 42 times in the league, including 33 starts, and contributed three goals and three assists.

Derby climbed from 19th in the table to eighth in what was Eustace’s first full campaign in charge.

The transfer window won’t open officially until 15 June, meaning there is still plenty of time to find a resolution to Clark’s future.

Cut-rate price for Bobby Clark would be a dream for Derby

If RB Salzburg are willing to keep a low price for Clark’s permanent signature this summer, then that should favour Derby in the race to bring him in.

The midfielder settled in well at Pride Park, and proved himself as a key part of Eustace’s plans, so it’s not surprising that he is keen to keep him.

The fact he enjoyed a loan spell with the Rams should put them front of the queue for a permanent move, but then Rangers will be able to offer European football if they do contest his signature.

Derby will need to make a compelling case that they can compete for promotion again next season, and that a place in the Premier League is possible.