Derby County midfielder George Thorne is the subject of interest from four Premier League clubs, according to the Sunday Mirror.
The four teams – Everton, Norwich, Crystal Palace and Newcastle – have all been monitoring the Englishman’s progress since the ex-West Brom anchor returned from a lengthy injury.
Thorne’s performance in recent weeks has earnt him multiple admirers, and Rams boss Paul Clement could face a battle in trying to retain his services in next month’s transfer window.
Everton reportedly lead the race for 22-year-old, with Roberto Martinez sighting the youngster as a long-term replacement for midfield veteran Gareth Barry. Thorne could, however, favour a move to Tyneside with his former manager Steve McClaren – the man who signed him for Derby 18 months ago.
Despite the competition for a role in the middle of the park at the iPro Stadium this season, Thorne has still appeared in 19 of Derby’s 23 league matches. Even though he is usually deployed in a defensive role, the number 34 has still chipped in with two goals and three assists this term.
