Derby County are reportedly keeping tabs on Wales international Rabbi Matondo as they continue searching for attacking reinforcements ahead of the new Championship campaign.
The Rams are eager to strengthen their forward options, with Matondo emerging as one of the names under consideration. The 25-year-old winger is currently on trial with Sheffield United, while Middlesbrough have also been credited with an interest.
Matondo is available after a disappointing four-month spell with Norwegian side SK Brann, where he struggled for playing time and is now free to move on. Once regarded as one of British football’s brightest young talents, he previously completed a £9.6 million move during his career.
Born in Liverpool before relocating to Cardiff with his family, Matondo developed through Cardiff City’s academy, where he spent a decade honing his game. His father, Dada, played football in DR Congo, while his brothers, Cedrick and Japhet, are also professional footballers. His blistering speed and dribbling ability quickly made him one of Cardiff’s standout prospects, with many comparing his potential to that of Aaron Ramsey.
Those performances attracted interest from several Premier League clubs before Matondo eventually moved abroad. Although his time at Rangers showed flashes of his talent, recurring injuries prevented him from consistently delivering on expectations. One of his standout moments came in a thrilling 3-3 draw with Celtic, where he scored a spectacular goal that later won Rangers’ Goal of the Season award for 2023/24.
Seeking a fresh start, Matondo joined SK Brann in March, hoping to revive his career after admitting injuries had held him back in Scotland. He spoke openly about wanting to remain fit, rediscover his confidence, and work his way back to the highest level with both club and country.
However, his move to Norway failed to provide the breakthrough he had hoped for. He featured only three times, playing just 30 minutes in total, and is now expected to return to England in search of regular football.
Primarily operating on the left wing, Matondo is at his best when cutting inside onto his stronger foot. His explosive acceleration, direct running, and ability to thrive in counter-attacking situations remain his greatest strengths. With 15 senior caps for Wales, he has shown that, when fully fit, he can trouble even the toughest defenders.
The biggest concern surrounding Matondo has always been his fitness record rather than his ability. Injuries have repeatedly interrupted his progress, with only one season in his career seeing him make 40 appearances, during his time at Cercle Brugge.
For Derby County, adding a player with Matondo’s pace and attacking threat could provide a different dimension to their forward line. If he can stay injury-free, he has the qualities to become a valuable asset in the Championship.
