Derby County have announced the pre-contract signing of FC Groningen captain Mike te Wierik from Dutch side Groningen. The 27-year-old, who’s contract runs out in the summer has penned a three-year deal at Pride Park.
Derby County Agree Pre-Contract Deal for Mike te Wierik
Dutch Connection
Rams boss Phillip Cocu was aware of the centre-back from his time at PSV Eindhoven with the defender playing in the Eredivisie at the same time.
Having been club captain at FC Groningen for some time, te Wierik will hope to fill the void left by former Derby County skipper Richard Keogh who was infamously dismissed earlier this season.
The East Midlands club had hoped to add depth to their defensive department during the January transfer window but failed in their bid to sign Leicester City’s Filip Benkovic, who eventually joined Bristol City.
The pre-contract agreement arranged between the parties will suit financially-hampered Derby, who are reluctant to spend any money whilst they are still under investigation by the EFL.
Excited to Get Started
Following his side’s 1-0 defeat to PEC Zwolle last weekend, te Wierik said: “I am now 27 years old and can hardly wait any longer.”
The centre-back has only played for FC Groningen and Heracles Almelo, but with Cocu at the helm, it should help him to transition to life in English football far sooner.
Speaking to the club’s website, the Derby boss said: “Mike is someone I know well and I have no doubt whatsoever he will fit into our style of play at Derby County.
“He is a good defender and a leader, which is demonstrated by the fact he is FC Groningen’s captain, and he will be a very good signing for us.”
Alongside his leadership qualities, te Wierik looks to be comfortable on the ball, completing 88& of his passes so far this season, something that the Rams have lacked at times during this campaign.
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