Issa Kabore: Derby County linked with move for Man City and Burkina Faso defender

Derby County are exploring a move for Burkina Faso right-back Issa Kabore from Manchester City as they look to strengthen ahead of the new Championship season.

Kabore, 25, is under contract at City until 30 June 2027 but has spent much of his time away from the club on loan, and Derby are understood to be targeting a permanent solution on the right side of their defence. He is currently valued at around €4m, a figure that is likely to shape negotiations between the clubs.

The defender has just returned to Manchester after a spell at Wrexham last season, the latest in a long line of loans since joining City from KV Mechelen in 2020. His most sustained top-flight run came in France, where he made 53 Ligue 1 appearances, and he has also featured in the Premier League and Champions League during his various temporary moves.

Kabore’s experience across England, France, Belgium, Germany and Portugal, together with regular minutes at club level, has made him an attractive option for Championship sides seeking an attack-minded full-back with pedigree in major European leagues.

Born in Bobo-Dioulasso, Kabore was named best young player in 2021 with Burkina Faso and has already collected silverware in Europe, including a Portuguese league cup triumph in 2024-25 with Benfica while on loan. He returned to City that same season, adding an English Super Cup winners’ medal to his honours.

For now, Kabore remains a City player preparing for the final year of his deal, with Derby monitoring his situation as they consider whether a deal can be struck during this window.