Bristol City transfer target available for free after Derby release

Bristol City could be presented with the opportunity to sign Curtis Davies after he was released by League One club Derby County.

Davies is being let go by the Rams after six years of service to the club, along with fellow experienced defenders James Chester and Richard Stearman. Paul Warne's side failed to qualify for the play-offs and to add insult to injury, Davies was red carded for being the last man, conceding a penalty to Sheffield Wednesday which Michael Smith dispatched.

The 38-year-old was captain of Derby this season, and made 24 appearances in all competitions, but found himself in-and-out of the side with 15 league starts, but also seven substitute appearances and 12 times where he didn't come off the bench. In total, he made 175 appearances for Derby, scoring five goals and getting assists.

"I knew this day would have to come at some point, but it’s always been daunting to ever have to write this,” he posted in a statement on Twitter after his departure from Pride Park was confirmed.

“After six years, 175 games, six managers and five goals….my time as a Derby County player has come to an end. It has been a massive honour for me to have played for and captained this amazing club.

“I’d like to thank you fans that have supported me throughout the ups and downs of the last six years. It’s been one hell of a ride! Also all of my team mates, managers and staff along the way for giving me some great memories on and off the pitch.

“Finally, I look forward to seeing you all soon…maybe even as an opponent, but if not I’ll be back at Pride Park soon enough to take in a game as a fan."

Last summer, Davies was heavily linked with a move to Ashton Gate, as well as former club Hull City but that was only speculation, and he ended up penning new terms with Derby. Davies has worked with manager Nigel Pearson before during the latter's brief spell in charge, but revealed there was no contract offer from either the Robins or the Tigers when he found himself out-of-contract.

At 38, Davies is at the opposite end of his career to the youthful squad that City have, but there is a lack of defensive cover with only Zak Vyner and Tomas Kalas as the recognised centre-backs, and Kalas is out-of-contract this summer. Davies has played 321 times in the Championship and could add some much-needed experience to the youngsters who could feed off his knowledge.