Derby could sell Man City and Arsenal target, admits Clough

Derby County manager Nigel Clough has revealed he is hoping to hang on to whizz kid Will Hughes, but admits the club may sell him if the deal represents good business for all concerned.

The precocious midfielder, 17, capped an impressive start to the season with the Rams by making his debut for England’s Under-21s against Northern Ireland.

Hughes’ promise is currently drawing him to the attention of Premier League sides like Manchester City and Arsenal.

And although Clough wants to keep hold of the skilful schemer, he admits if there is serious money on the table a transfer could happen.

“If anybody wants him, they know it will be serious money,” he told The Derby Telegraph.

"Nothing has changed. If an offer comes in for Will or any player, it will be judged on its merits. If we think it is good business and we can do something with it, then we will do it.

"We see the list of scouts for our matches at Pride Park and it is their job to be watching all the good young talent in the Championship and below.

"When a 17-year-old looks to have the ability Will has, then it is bound to attract attention. It is inevitable. We don't mind that at all. It shows he is doing something right and it is great for our Academy.

"There are not too many 17-year-olds playing week in, week out with his ability in the Championship – or anywhere – and we think he is good enough to go to the next level.

"The best possible thing for him at the moment is to stay with us, get a season or two under his belt in the Championship and just keep learning and improving.

"Can we hang onto him? We hope we can.

“We've still got to be careful with Will, because he has played only 16 or 17 games, so it is still very early in his career. It is important he keeps his feet on the ground, that he doesn't get carried away with things and that he keeps performing week in, week out.

"He is level-headed and intelligent enough to do that.”

Meanwhile, Hughes himself has insisted he’s enjoying his time and Pride Park and, despite interest from Premier League club, he has dismissed talk of a transfer as gossip.

"It is nice to get recognised but it is just rumours,” he said. “I have just signed a new contract, which shows I am enjoying it here at Derby."