Stoke, Derby County others eager to have Akin Odimayo

English footballer of Nigerian descent Akin Odimayo has been caught in the middle as Championship sides Stoke and Derby County jostle to have him in their squad.

The Swindon Town defender has been impressive doing his job and has attracted attention from a number of clubs in recent times.

Odimayo joined The Robins last summer on a free transfer from Reading, and has played over 30 times for the League One side. He has played at both full-back and in central defence for Swindon, who are battling hard to avoid relegation.

Despite their struggles as a team, the 21-year-old has impressed. Therefore, Swindon are set to take up the one-year option they have on him before then selling him.

Aside from Stoke and County, Sheffield Wednesday and Preston North End are also in the race for   Odimayo.

Odimayo never played in the Championship for Reading, but did make one cup appearance. However, he could now have the chance to step back up to the second tier.

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The defender has provided one assist from his 30 appearances in League One this season. He also made a further three appearances in cup competitions, getting another assist in the EFL Cup.

Should Odimayo succeed in joining Stoke City, he will be teaming up with Nigeria international and former Super Eagles Captain John Obi Mikel from whom he stands to pick a lot of experience