Derby County Opinion: Why the Rams should go all out for Ellis Chapman?
According to a report from Lincolnshire Live, Derby County, Wigan Athletic and Southampton are all interested in Lincoln City midfielder Ellis Chapman.
Ellis Chapman, 18, has emerged from the Lincoln City ranks in the last three years after he moved to Sincil Bank from Leicester City in 2016. He played 14 times in the League Two this season, as Lincoln romped to the title under Danny Cowley.
However, Chapman spent the second half out on loan to Chesterfield in the National League after the arrival of Mark O’Hara on loan from Peterborough in January had pushed him down the pecking order. The teenager had a successful time with Chesterfield, as he helped the club avoid relegation from the National League.
The young midfielder’s contract expires at the end of next season. In order to avoid losing him on the cheap, Lincoln might be forced to cash in this summer transfer window. That should prompt Derby County to take full advantage of the situation and beat the likes of Wigan and Southampton to Chapman’s signature in the summer.
Derby County sealed their spot at Wembley last night as they overcame Leeds United in an absolute thriller at Elland Road. At 2-0 down in the first half, the game looked dead and buried for the Rams.
But just before half-time, Frank Lampard made an attacking change by bringing on Jack Marriott. And that move worked wonders, as Marriott scored with arguably his first touch and claimed his second in the other half to seal a memorable 4-2 victory over Leeds.
A cracking performance from Lampard’s men at Elland Road has set up a mouthwatering playoff final with Aston Villa. Whatever happens at Wembley on May 27, Lampard needs to bring in reinforcements over the summer and must prioritise strengthening the midfield options.
Bradley Johnson and Tom Huddlestone are on the wrong side of 30, while Harry Wilson and Mason Mount are expected to return back to their parent clubs after the playoff finals. Thus, there’s a clear need for a couple of additions in midfield and Lampard would be wise to get a deal for Ellis Chapman done.
At Derby, Lampard has trusted the youngsters and in return, they have all repaid his faith. Chapman is a real talent and has got a massive potential to fulfil in the coming years. He has impressed playing for Lincoln and certainly looks capable of operating at a higher level in the future.
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The teenager could thrive under the guidance of Lampard, whilst bringing depth to the squad, which will be important if Derby earns promotion to the Premier League.
Verdict
Thus, Derby must do everything possible to sign Chapman from Lincoln City, as the player’s potential and versatility could make him a long-term valuable asset at Pride Park.
