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Sky Sports pundit Lee Hendrie has given his thoughts on Derby County's links with Chelsea full-back Alfie Gilchrist.

Derby County have been touted as a potential destination for Chelsea right-back Alfie Gilchrist.

The 21-year-old spent last season on loan with Sheffield United last term as they reached the play-off final. However, he fell out of favour under Chris Wilder as the season progressed.

The Telegraph's Mike McGrath reports that talks have been held between Chelsea and Derby over a potential loan deal for the youngster.

Speaking exclusively to Football League World, Sky Sports pundit Lee Hendrie was asked whether Gilchrist would be a good potential signing for the Rams, and outlined the idea that the full-back could improve in a squad full of experience at Pride Park.

Gilchrist has "bags of potential" - despite poor Sheffield United campaign

"I was a bit disappointed with him when he went to Sheffield United," said Hendrie. "I think he has bags of potential, and I thought he would step up and be a big player for them. But, it didn't happen. So I was a bit disappointed that it didn't really work out for him."

Spending last season on loan at Bramall Lane, Gilchrist made 30 league appearances for the Blades as they reached the play-off final, where Sunderland would pip them to Premier League promotion.

Hendrie was keen to outline that not all is lost regarding Gilchrist's potential, however: "Maybe he has had a taste of the Championship, and knows what it is about. He will have to go to a football club and get his career up and running."

"When you have quality and experience around you, players can learn and improve," mentioned Hendrie, with Derby adding the likes of Andi Weimann, Danny Batth and Carlton Morris to their ranks this summer.

"Hopefully, that is the case for Alfie Gilchrist, because he could be a super signing for Derby," Hendrie concluded.

Gilchrist would fit John Eustace's Derby County blueprint

The Rams have had a fantastic transfer window thus far as they prepare for a second successive Championship season following their 2024 promotion.

The aforementioned Weimann, Batth and Morris have all arrived with years of EFL experience and know-how, with the latter two carrying promotion experience from their respective periods with Wolves and Luton.

Alongside this, the statement signing of Patrick Agyemang for a reported £5.8 million fee has bolstered Eustace's front line, while impressive youngsters Owen Beck, Bobby Clark and David Ozoh have all joined the club.

With what seems to be a fantastic blend of youth and experience, Derby are aiming to surge up the standings this term after securing their second-tier future under Eustace. Gilchrist would fit the mould of Derby's youthful signings, while being able to learn and adapt with the knowledge of a group of experienced professionals.

Pride Park could be the ideal destination for Gilchrist to begin reaching his potential that remained untapped at Sheffield United.