CONOR HOURIHANE has been left in limbo by Wayne Rooney’s shock Derby departure.
The Republic of Ireland midfielder spent last season on loan at Sheffield United but is now a free agent after Aston Villa did not renew his contract.
Rooney wanted 31-year-old Hourihane to lead the Rams’ League One promotion charge and offered a three-year deal when Chris Kirchner was due to buy the club.
But Roo’s decision to quit has stunned many current Derby players and targets.
He also had a loan deal teed-up with Manchester United for Dylan Levitt, 21, who spent last season at Dundee United.
Derby will try to tie down Curtis Davies and Ravel Morrison and give new contracts to young players.
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But there are now doubts over Phil Bardsley and Tom Barkhuizen, who were on the club’s wish list.
Meanwhile, Derby’s much-needed takeover has received a major boost after they received a loan from a local businessman preparing to try and buy the club.
Joint administrators Quantum have now announced they have accepted a loan from Derbyshire-based Clowes Developments Ltd.
David Clowes, chairman of the property company, is a Derby supporter.
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In a statement, he said: “Derbyshire-based property group, Clowes Developments (UK) Ltd, are proud to announce they have successfully purchased the company that owned Pride Park Stadium from fellow local businessman Mel Morris.
“Additionally, Clowes have issued an interim loan to the club which will enable Derby County to start the next season and trade whilst a deal to purchase the club is concluded.
“Clowes have also confirmed that they will, today, submit a bid to purchase Derby County Football Club.”
