Chelsea winger Jesse Derry is attracting interest from Sporting CP as a potential consequence of Liverpool’s pursuit of Francisco Trincao, according to reports in Portugal. The 18-year-old Derry joined Chelsea last year after opting against a professional contract with Crystal Palace, quickly impressing within the club’s youth setup.
Liam Rosenior, formerly Chelsea’s interim manager, handed Derry his senior debut in February during an FA Cup match against Hull City, followed by appearances against Wrexham and in the Premier League against Nottingham Forest in May. His last appearance for the Blues ended prematurely with a concussion sustained in a collision with Zach Abbott.
While a loan move to Coventry, with Frank Lampard reportedly a keen admirer, had been previously speculated, Sporting CP have now emerged as potential suitors. A Bola reports that Derry is being considered as part of Sporting’s plans to rebuild their attack, though he isn’t their primary target. The Portuguese club are primarily focused on securing Deportivo La Coruna’s Yeremay.
The interest from Sporting is linked to anticipated departures from their own squad, with Pedro Goncalves and Souleymane Faye expected to leave, and Francisco Trincao attracting attention from Liverpool. The Reds have already moved to secure Victor Munoz, previously linked with Newcastle, but are seeking further reinforcement in attack. Yan Diomande of Leipzig is their preferred option, however, Leipzig are demanding a fee exceeding €120 million.
Should Liverpool fail to agree a deal for Diomande, they may turn their attention to Trincao. Reports suggest superagent Jorge Mendes has informed Sporting and Trincao of an impending “massive” bid from an unnamed club, widely believed to be Liverpool. This potential transfer domino effect could inadvertently open the door for Sporting to pursue Derry, though Chelsea are reportedly hesitant to sell a player with such significant potential.
