The Imps’ Championship rivals Derby County, Stoke City and Middlesbrough are all reported to be keeping tabs on Sheffield Wednesday defender Max Lowe, as reported by the Sheffield Star.
The 29-year-old is out of contract at Hillsborough this summer, with the Owls facing a major rebuild following relegation to League One.
According to reports, Wednesday would like to keep Lowe, but Derby, Stoke and Middlesbrough are among the Championship clubs credited with an interest in the left-footed defender. Leicester City have also been mentioned as another side aware of his situation.
Championship Interest Builds
Lowe’s profile appears to be the key factor behind the interest. Naturally a left-back, he has spent much of the season operating on the left side of a back three, giving clubs a player capable of covering more than one defensive role.
That versatility could make him an appealing free transfer option, particularly for Championship sides looking to strengthen without committing to a fee. Derby’s interest carries an obvious extra layer, with Lowe having come through the Rams’ academy before leaving Pride Park in 2020 as part of the deal that also took Jayden Bogle to Sheffield United.
Derby are not short in those areas, with Derry Murkin established at left-back and options such as Matt Clarke, Dion Sanderson and Sondre Langas at centre-back, but Lowe’s availability has still seen them linked with a potential return.
Stoke have also been credited with interest, while Middlesbrough are said to be monitoring the situation depending on how their own summer plans develop.
Wednesday Keen To Keep Lowe
Sheffield Wednesday’s position is complicated by relegation, with the club preparing for League One football and operating under financial restrictions following their exit from administration. Lowe is said to be open to staying at Hillsborough, but Championship interest could test Wednesday’s hopes of keeping him.
Owls boss Henrik Pedersen has spoken highly of the defender’s influence and adaptability.
“He’s a fantastic character in the group and you can feel when he plays he makes a difference in the group. I call it one plus one is three, how we have the synergy between the players, he does a big job here.
“Defensively, he’s one of the best front-foot defending players we have, intercepting the ball, playing forwards. On the ball, he’s a strong possession player.”
Pedersen also highlighted Lowe’s ability to play in several roles, adding that Wednesday had used him at left wing-back and left centre-back, while also considering whether he could operate as a more attacking left-back in future.
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