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Transfer Talk: Hunt moves to Derby in bid for game time

Friday 08 January 2010 01:00 GMT
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Bolton Wanderers defender Nicky Hunt has joined Derby County on a month's loan after struggling for first-team opportunities at the Reebok. The 26-year-old has played 172 games for the side, but has failed to make a single appearance this season, giving the Rams manager Nigel Clough the opportunity to bring the experienced defender to Pride Park. "Nicky is a welcome addition and we're pleased to bring him in," Clough said of Hunt, who could make his debut at home to Scunthorpe United tomorrow. "He can play at right-back or centre-half so it is nice to have someone equally comfortable in either position. He also has good experience in both the Championship and Premier League." The former England Under-21 player previously spent two months on loan at Birmingham City last season.

Martinez brings in goalkeeper to provide cover for Kirkland

Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has completed the season-long loan signing of Serbia goalkeeper Vladimir Stojkovic from Sporting Lisbon after a work permit was granted. The 26-year-old arrives at the DW Stadium as cover for Chris Kirkland after second-choice Richard Kingson departed for this month's African Nations Cup. Stojkovic goes straight into the squad for the visit of Aston Villa tomorrow afternoon. "He will add tremendous competition for places," Martinez said.

Strachan looks to former club to bolster struggling squad

Middlesbrough manager Gordon Strachan is in discussions with former club Celtic regarding a number of transfer targets. The Scot has been linked with Gary Caldwell, Stephen McManus, Barry Robson, Mark Wilson, Willo Flood and Scott McDonald, along with Rangers striker Kris Boyd. "We are trying to bring in people who can lead," he said. "I want to bring in leaders and men – that's hugely important. I have to have players who I know. There will not be any foreigners coming in this time, that's for sure."

Long shots

Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain could be making a shock arrival at Arsenal, with Gunners captain Cesc Fabregas heading in the opposite direction.

Manchester United forward Federico Macheda is being chased by Bologna after failing to secure a first-team place, while Newcastle manager Chris Hughton has added PSG winger Jerome Rothen to a wishlist that already includes the Leeds striker Jermaine Beckford.

Monaco forward Eidur Gudjohnsen could be reunited with former manager Sam Allardyce at Blackburn in a £2m move after previously working with him at Bolton.

QPR continue to scan the transfer market, with Hull's Caleb Folanand Portsmouth goalkeeper Jamie Ashdowntop of their list, along with former Manchester City striker Felipe Caicedo. West Ham have joined the Tigers in the hunt for Aston Villa's Marlon Harewood.

Adam Hulme

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