Linked Senegal striker is now free agent

FORMER Everton striker Oumar Niasse, who has been linked with Derby County previously, is a free agent this summer.

The 31-year-old Senegal international has been released by Huddersfield Town.

He joined the Terriers in March on a contract until the end of the season but suffered a groin injury soon after signing and was ruled out for the rest of the campaign without making an appearance for them.

Niasse, who played alongside Derby manager Wayne Rooney for Everton, reportedly rejected a loan move to the Rams in January 2020.

He was again linked with Derby last October and also in the most recent January transfer window.

He has played top-flight football in Senegal, Norway, Turkey, Russia and England.

Niasse joined Russian club Lokomotiv Moscow in 2014 in a 5.5m euros move from Turkish Super Lig club Akhisar Belediyespor.

He moved to Everton for £13.5m in July 2016 and had loan spells at Hull City and Cardiff City.

His record in all competitions for Everton was nine goals in 42 games, all of which came in 25 appearances in the 2017-18 season. He then found himself behind Dominic Calvert-lewin and Richarlison in the striking department.

Niasse’s appearances and goals have dried up in recent seasons.

He was also linked with Middlesbrough and West Bromwich Albion in January.

The Rams continue to be linked with a move for attacking midfielder Alex Pritchard, who has been released by Huddersfield Town and is a free agent.

Reports in January suggested there was interest from Derby in the 28-year-old. He has also been linked with Queens Park Rangers, Bristol City and Birmingham City.

Pritchard joined Huddersfield from Norwich City in January 2018 and scored three goals in 83 appearances in all competitions.