Leicester City midfielder Hamza Choudhury is a transfer target for Championship side Derby County. The Foxes could lose the 28-year-old before the window closes as manager Russell Martin assesses his options following a tough start to the League One campaign.
Football Lowdown reports that Derby, who finished eighth in the Championship last term, are keen on the Bangladesh international. Choudhury has featured as a substitute in both of Leicester's league games so far, a draw with Notts County and a surprise loss to Burton Albion. The nature of any potential deal, whether loan or permanent, remains unclear.
Why would Derby County want Hamza Choudhury?
Derby County are looking to bolster their midfield with proven experience. Choudhury offers a wealth of it, having played in the Premier League and Championship, and he is a full international. His defensive work rate could be a specific asset. Last season, while featuring 30 times for a struggling Leicester side, he averaged 1.7 tackles and 0.9 interceptions per game according to Sofascore data. Adding a player of his profile might enhance Derby's push for the play-offs, especially after their own mixed start of one draw and one loss.
For Leicester, his potential departure follows several other exits that have freed up space on the wage bill. The club finished 23rd in the Championship last season, collecting 46 points from 46 games with a recent form of WDDLL. They ended the campaign 49 points behind leaders Coventry City, having scored 58 goals and conceded 68.
What has Hamza Choudhury's recent form been like?
Choudhury's career has seen fluctuations. He showed great promise earlier on, earning England U21 honours, but has found consistent game time harder to secure in recent years. The 2024/25 season was a difficult one for both player and club, culminating in back-to-back relegations. Choudhury started 17 of his 30 appearances, registering no goals or assists and receiving an average Sofascore rating of 6.77. His previous loan spells at Sheffield United in 2024/25 and at Watford indicate a pattern of being moved on for first-team football.
His statistical output last season, beyond tackles and interceptions, included averages of 1.9 clearances and 1.6 ball recoveries per match. These numbers paint a picture of a diligent, defensively-minded midfielder who operated in a team under constant pressure.
How does this affect Leicester City's squad planning?
Manager Russell Martin is tasked with building a side capable of mounting a promotion challenge from League One. Letting Choudhury go would be part of a broader reshuffle. The club's final Championship standings show the scale of the rebuild required after a -10 goal difference. Martin will want to construct a squad in his image, and moving on experienced players who are not central to his plans creates opportunities for others.
Choudhury's situation is one of several decisions facing the recruitment team this week. Fans can track any further ins and outs via the club's official squad page. His departure, if it happens, would conclude a long association that has included highs and recent struggles.
What happens next for the player and clubs?
The immediate next step is for Derby County to formalise their interest with an offer to Leicester City. Both clubs have early-season issues to address, making this a potentially swift piece of business. For Choudhury, a move to a Championship club would represent a chance to reignite his career at a higher level after two substitute appearances in the third tier. For Leicester, the focus remains on improving results on the pitch, with upcoming fixtures offering a quick chance to respond to their opening setbacks. The transfer window's deadline will ultimately decide where the midfielder begins the autumn.
