The Irish contingent at Udinese looks set to double in the summer, with Festy Ebosele linked with move to the Serie A club.
The Republic of Ireland U21 wing-back is out of contract at Derby County in the summer. As he's in the last six months of his deal, Ebosele is free to discuss a potential pre-contract agreement with other clubs.
Last month saw Udinese pay St. Patrick's Athletic a reported League of Ireland record fee for 18-year old defender, James Abankwah.
Ebosele has been one of the standout performers in a difficult season for Wayne Rooney's Derby side. He's started 11 games in the Championship this term, to move him to the brink of a call-up to Stephen Kenny's senior Ireland side.
Bologna and Nottingham Forest are also reported admirers of the youngster.
Great work from Sam Baldock and Tom Lawrence to put it on a plate for Festy Ebosele...
And 𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 a moment for the youngster! 🤩#DCFC pic.twitter.com/VfSBwOroia— Derby County (@dcfcofficial) November 7, 2021
Sky Sport Italia report that the 19-year old has been given permission by Derby to undergo a medical with Udinese ahead of a summer move.
Rooney was fulsome in his praise for the Enniscorthy native last month, saying, "I’ve been really impressed with Festy, who came in with us during pre-season.
“There has been a lot of development in him since he came in.
“Of course, he’s raw and he’s quick. He’s a handful to play against, and you have been able to see so many improvements in terms of his positioning.
“There’s so many of those players at the club. Luke Plange as well. You can go on and on with them all. It’s always a good feeling to that you’re helping a player to get better.”