Southampton’s goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu has become Derby County’s top target as Jacob Widell Zetterstrom’s future hangs in the balance. Derby, fresh from a near‑play‑off finish, see the 24‑year‑old Irish international as a direct replacement should the Swede depart.

Why is Derby eyeing Bazunu?

Derby’s manager John Eustace needs a reliable shot‑stopper after Zetterstrom, who arrived from Djurgården for around £1.4 million in 2024, attracted interest from Eintracht Frankfurt, Leeds United and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Fabrizio Romano reported the Swede could leave this summer, prompting Eustace to line up Bazunu, who joined Southampton in 2022 for roughly £12 million from Manchester City.

How has Bazunu performed for Southampton?

Bazunu’s four‑year spell at St Mary’s has been uneven. He endured two relegations and loan spells at Standard Liège and Stoke City, failing to cement a first‑team berth. With Alex McCarthy gone on a free and Aaron Ramsdale expected to leave after his Newcastle loan, Bazunu is now the most senior keeper on the roster, but recent form (WWDDW) suggests the club may be ready to cash in.

What does this mean for Southampton’s season?

Southampton sit 4th in the Championship with 80 points from 46 games (22W‑14D‑10L) and a recent 2‑1 win over Middlesbrough on 12 May 2026. They have scored 82 goals and conceded 56, sitting 15 points behind leaders Coventry. If Bazunu departs, the Saints could rely on Daniel Peretz, who was signed permanently from Bayern Munich, to guard the net for the remainder of the campaign.

Could Derby secure the deal?

Derby’s interest appears serious; reports suggest they are prepared to meet Southampton’s valuation, potentially recouping a fraction of the £12 million spent. With Zetterstrom’s exit likely, Derby would have a clear path to integrate Bazunu into a side that finished just outside the play‑offs, aiming to push for promotion next season.

What’s next for the transfer window?

Both clubs will monitor each other’s moves closely. Southampton may look to offload Bazunu for cash while reinforcing elsewhere, whereas Derby hopes to lock in a keeper who can command the box as they chase a top‑four finish. The next few weeks will determine whether Bazunu’s Southampton chapter ends and a new Derby story begins.