Jacob Widell Zetterstrom on alert but Derby County know rule will help despite rival boss warning
Swedish goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterström has caught the attention of multiple clubs this summer — and Derby County are firmly in the mix. As the Rams eye up reinforcements ahead of their return to the Championship, the Djurgårdens IF shot-stopper has emerged as a potential target. However, the chase for his signature is heating up, and not without its complications.
Zetterström, 26, has been a consistent performer in the Allsvenskan, with his commanding presence and calm distribution making him a standout in Sweden’s top tier. His recent performances have reportedly alerted clubs across Europe, including Derby County, who are keen to strengthen between the posts. Although nothing is official yet, sources suggest the Rams have been monitoring the situation for weeks.
While Derby’s interest is clear, a recent shift in post-Brexit transfer rules regarding work permits may surprisingly work in their favor. Under the current Governing Body Endorsement (GBE) system introduced by the FA, players from certain leagues are now more likely to qualify for work permits than in previous years — and the Swedish top flight ranks well enough to make Zetterström eligible. This gives Derby a much-needed advantage in securing a player who might have otherwise been deemed out of reach.
Despite this, not everyone is convinced that the move would be straightforward. A rival Championship manager — whose team is also rumored to be in the market for a goalkeeper — has reportedly issued a cautionary note. According to him, signing players from outside the UK, even with the GBE system, comes with hidden challenges. These include adaptation periods, cultural shifts, and the physicality of English football, particularly in the Championship.
Derby, though, seem unfazed. Club insiders believe that Zetterström’s temperament and style of play make him a natural fit for English football. His height, shot-stopping reflexes, and ability to play out from the back align with the modern demands of a Championship keeper. Moreover, Derby boss Paul Warne has shown a willingness to trust overseas talent when the character and quality align — and early scouting reports suggest Zetterström ticks both boxes.
Financially, Derby may also have an edge. The club’s well-documented budget discipline means they’re unlikely to overspend, but the relatively modest fee expected for Zetterström makes this a feasible deal. With the club recently securing stability both on and off the pitch, they are in a position to act decisively.
For now, Derby County remain on alert. Their recruitment team continues to assess their options, with Zetterström among the leading names. The interest from other clubs and the warning from a rival coach may complicate the picture, but the club remains quietly confident that the new rules could tip the balance in their favor.
