Portsmouth, Swansea City, and Derby County are all interested in loaning out Leicester City defender Ben Nelson, according to Darren Witcoop on X.
The Championship trio hope to sign the Premier League player before the transfer window closes. They have till this evening’s deadline to obtain their man.
Nelson, a 20-year-old England youth international, has spent his entire career with Leicester City. He progressed through the academy ranks of the top flight new boys and was a regular for the Foxes at various youth levels as a child.
According to the most recent report on his condition by Witcoop on X, Portsmouth, Swansea City, and Derby County are all ‘exploring’ a potential move for him on the final day of the transfer market. At this point, it’s unclear who is driving this chase.
Portsmouth, Swansea City and Derby County eye defender
Nelson was loaned out by Leicester City for the first time in his career to Rochdale in 2022 to gain experience.
He went on to make 12 appearances for the North West outfit, which aided his development.
Doncaster Rovers eventually came knocking, and he played 15 games for the League Two team before returning to the King Power Stadium.
Nelson appeared eight times for Leicester City last season, as the club was promoted from the second division for the first time under Enzo Maresca. Their former manager has since left for Chelsea, and has been replaced by Steve Cooper, a former Swansea City and Nottingham Forest player.
A temporary leave for the prospect would be a wise decision for everyone involved. His chances of playing regular first-team football for the Foxes in the Premier League are minimal due to the more experienced options available in his position.
Where next for Leicester City man?
Portsmouth, Derby County, and Oxford United were promoted from League One last season, and Nelson could help them add depth to their defense.
Swansea City could try to bring in additional players before the deadline under ex-Notts County boss Luke Williams to supplement what they already have, but the Rams could use some reinforcements to bolster their survival chances.