Derby County are reportedly taking on Norwich City in a transfer battle for 22-year-old left winger Olaf Kobacki.
Kobacki has been attracting scouts to the Polish second division thanks to his performances for Arka Gdynia, where he scored 13 times in 32 matches last season, as well as chipping in with five assists.
But his club needs to sell this summer after failing to win promotion to the top flight, with local media explaining the bitterness was enormous and adding: In the situation of playing another year in the second division, Arka must save budget, and the sale of its most valuable players is inevitable.
There are claims that Kobacki “has already been sold to a Championship club,” and Interia Sport suggests that offers have been submitted by Norwich and Derby. Atalanta are also believed to have a buy-back option after letting the player leave Italy two years ago – and he might struggle to get an automatic work permit to play in the UK, although Derby could use one of their wild card slots for an overseas signing.
Kobacki came through the ranks at Lech Poznan and played for Poland at youth level. He had five years with Atalanta, including a spell where he was sent on loan to Arka, before joining Arka for good.
Arka striker Karol Czubak, aged 24, has also been linked with a move to the Championship after scoring 15 times but his departure is described as “less likely” as he has recently become a father and is said to be reluctant to move.
