He has lots of options, doesn’t he? Graeme Shinnie’s Aberdeen contract expires in the summer and his performances have seemingly caught the eye of many onlookers across not just Scotland, but England too and specifically the second tier of football.
Shinnie has been a mainstay in the Dons’ side in which he is club captain, having really established himself there over what is approaching four years since his arrival.
The competition for the 27-year-old’s signature is truly on. FootballInsider have reported that Derby County leads the chase for Shinnie. The report also suggests that Sheffield United and Bristol City have made offers for his services but that their approaches have been leapfrogged by Derby.
With that being said, let’s take a look at what environment he would suit better. One of the clubs who have been interested, as displayed by the report, Sheffield United, as opposed to the side who allegedly lead the race for Shinnie…
Derby County
Shinnie is primarily a left-back and for that role, Frank Lampard’s side could do with a little for quality to push on next season.
Ashley Cole offers a solid level of experience, but, at 38, he cannot be relied upon truly. Scott Malone is another option there as the Rams well know, but Shinnie’s versatility and technical prowess would really suit this side where he could get guaranteed game time. He would offer quality in both the attacking and defensive phase, as well as the ability to play in midfield, too.
Grade: B+
Sheffield United
It seems unlikely, but there is still the small, outside chance that Chris Wilder’s side could make another offer for Shinnie.
In terms of where he would play in their system, the left-wing-back role is already occupied by Enda Stevens who performs it ever so well. Shinnie could also fill in in the middle of the park, but with the natural talent there too, he would struggle for regular opportunities in the starting 11.
With United possibly on their way up too, that would only limit the game time for Shinnie if he was to move, so the potential deal is not the best for either party.
Grade: D
TT VERDICT
Shinnie has the talent to hold his own in England and it is a testament to his mentality that he seemingly wants to go and prove himself in another country and division. If he does move to England, Derby is definitely the best option for game time and how Lampard’s style of play suits him, so the two could work well together.
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