Former Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley is interested in buying Derby County.

The Sports Direct chief ended his 14-year stay in the North East this week after securing a sale to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, much to the jubilation of Magpies supporters.

The Mirror says Ashley is interested in taking over the Rams, with the Championship club encountering financial difficulties having entered administration earlier this season.

Ashley wishes to maintain a public platform for his Sports Direct empire, and the second tier outfit would provide that for the business magnate.

Moreover, Sports Direct's headquarters are situated in Shirebrook, Derbyshire just 30 miles from Pride Park.