If the latest reports are to be believed, Derby County have agreed a deal which might rise to £4.5million with Premier League heavyweights, Liverpool, in their pursuit of luring Andre Wisdom to the Pride Park Stadium. The deal is presumed to be in the final stages and is subject to personal terms and medical.
The Rams endured a turbulent season in the Championship last term, and owing to their self-constructed woes, they failed to earn a place for themselves in the playoffs. Finishing in 9th place finish with 67 points to their name, it goes without saying that they left a lot to be desired, for a club of their stature must be eyeing to ply their trade in the top flight.
As the teams solidify their arsenal over the course of the summer, the competition in the second division for getting to the Premier League will continue to heat up. Under the tutelage of Gary Rowett, the Rams will have to come back much stronger next term and for inking the same, they have laid their sight on a very promising player.
Wisdom emerged through the youth ranks of Bradford City and Liverpool and was eventually introduced to the senior side of the Reds. The 24-year-old was shipped out on loan to Derby County, West Bromwich Albion and Norwich City before joining Austrian Bundesliga outfit, Red Bull Salzburg, on loan last season and managed the league and cup double with them and impressed well enough.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Wisdom is that he is a very cool and composed customer at the back and has the versatility of plying his trade in any of the defensive slots.
He involves himself into taking proactive defensive measures, doesn’t refrain from making timely tackles and interceptions and plays the ball safely. Technically, he is sound and has impressive power and agility, and considering his age, he is destined to go miles ahead.
The English defender can ping precise passes, is very competent in clearing the ball and had earned valuable experience, mostly on loans, at various clubs. Besides, he does possess the necessary physique required to withstand the animosity which Championship offers and one should back him to succeed at Derby County.
Under the tutelage of Gary Rowett, he can get to the levels he was once touted to reach at Merseyside. Derby will no doubt target the playoffs and Wisdom’s experience, despite his young age, can be vital.