Derby and Rangers target towering Eredivisie defender

The transfer rumour mill is in full swing already this summer and one of the latest stories surrounds a Swedish defender from the Eredivisie.

Derby County are credited with an interest in the player as manager John Eustace looks to expand his depth at the centre of defence ahead of a potential play-off push next campaign.

Competing with the Midlands outfit are Scottish giants Rangers, who are rumoured to be aiming for a defensive overhaul this summer following a disappointing third-placed finish in the Premiership.

The Dutch Eredivisie has become a frequent hunting ground for Championship and Scottish Premiership clubs in recent years, and it appears that the market will be busy again during the upcoming transfer window.

Derby & Rangers chase Excelsior captain Casper Widell

The player in question, according to Swedish outlet Expressen, is Swedish centre-back Casper Widell, who captains Excelsior in the Dutch top tier.

The 23-year-old stands at an imposing 6ft 3in, and has represented his nation 12 times at under-21 level.

Widell is entering the final 12 months of his contract at the Dutch side and therefore could be available at a reduced price this summer.

The Swede moved to Holland from boyhood club Helsingborgs in 2023 and swiftly emerged as a first team player for the Rotterdam outfit. He made 34 appearances for his club in the Eredivisie last season, captaining them throughout the campaign.

Alongside Derby and Rangers, Blackburn are also credited with an interest in the 23-year-old, and there may be more suitors across the Championship.