Derby County’s search for reinforcements in the January transfer window appears to have turned towards the goalkeeping department, with Bristol City’s Max O’Leary emerging as a reported target.
But with Jacob Widell Zetterström already established as the club’s number one, the speculation raises an obvious question: is this simply about strengthening depth, or could it hint at a potential change between the posts?
O’Leary, 29, is understood to be keen on securing more regular game time after slipping down the pecking order at Ashton Gate.
The Republic of Ireland international has found opportunities limited following the arrival of Manchester United loanee Radek Vitek, who has recently been preferred by Bristol City.
That situation has alerted a number of Championship clubs, with QPR and Blackburn Rovers also believed to be monitoring his availability alongside Derby.
From Derby’s perspective, the interest can be interpreted in more than one way. On the surface, bringing in an experienced goalkeeper with Championship pedigree could be viewed as sensible squad management.
With a long second half of the season ahead, depth and competition in key positions are often vital, particularly in goal where injuries or suspensions can quickly cause disruption.
However, the timing of the links has inevitably led to questions over Zetterström’s long-term future at Pride Park.
The Swedish goalkeeper has been a regular presence since arriving and has largely retained the trust of the coaching staff, but January windows are rarely straightforward. Interest from elsewhere, or the opportunity to reshape the squad, can sometimes prompt difficult decisions.
If Derby were to pursue O’Leary as more than just a backup option, it would represent a significant statement. At 29, O’Leary would arrive expecting to play, not simply to sit on the bench, particularly given his desire for increased minutes.
That, in turn, would suggest genuine competition for the number one shirt or potentially open the door for Zetterström to consider his own options should an opportunity arise.
That said, there is also a more conservative explanation. Derby may simply be planning ahead. Goalkeeping depth can be thin, and the club could be looking to avoid being caught short later in the season.
In that scenario, Zetterström’s position would not necessarily be under immediate threat, with O’Leary providing experienced cover and internal pressure rather than a replacement.
With QPR and Blackburn also in the mix, any move is far from straightforward, and much will depend on Bristol City’s stance and O’Leary’s own priorities. What is clear is that Derby’s reported interest has added an intriguing subplot to their January plans.
Whether this proves to be a routine piece of squad building or the first sign of a shake-up in Derby’s goalkeeping department remains to be seen, but it is a situation worth watching closely as the window progresses.
