Derby County Midfielder Set For Switch To Championship Rivals

Departing Derby County midfielder Louie Sibley is set to move to fellow Championship side Oxford United, following their promotion from League One.

The 22-year-old recently confirmed his departure from Pride Park after his existing contract came to an end, and it now appears that Oxford United is set to be Sibley’s next destination.

The midfielder had spent his entire career with the Rams, sticking with the club despite their relegation down to the third tier and earned his reward with promotion last season.

How did Sibley fare for Derby last season?

Sibley made 44 appearances in all competitions for the Rams last season, proving to be a crucial part of their promotion push last season.

During those 44 appearances, Sibley scored six goals and added a further six assists to his tally, with seven of the 12 contributions coming in League One alone.

However, Sibley turned down a fresh contract offer at Pride Park in order to pursue what will be the second club of his professional career thus far, according to a report via Football Insider.

Do Oxford United face any competition?

In the initial report from Football Insider, they claim that Oxford United ‘lead the race’ to sign the 22-year-old.

However, no other side is directly mentioned as a rival to Oxford United which creates uncertainty as to who else is in the battle for the midfielder this summer but it does appear that he will make the switch to Des Buckingham’s side.

What would Sibley bring to Oxford?

Throughout his career with the Rams, Sibley has featured in several different positions which could add further versatility to Oxford United’s side next season.

Sibley is predominantly a central midfielder but can operate as an attacking midfielder and has also featured as a left-back and is a former England youth international.

His Championship experience could prove to be a vital asset for Des Buckingham’s side next season.

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