Derby County have been highly active in the summer transfer window and show no signs of slowing down.
Paul Warne, having experienced relegation from the Championship with Rotherham three times, understands the challenges of keeping Derby in the second tier. With their campaign set to begin against Blackburn Rovers on August 9th, Warne aims to maintain the momentum from last season.
The squad has seen significant changes since their victory over Carlisle United, which secured a second-place finish. Seven first-team players have left, while five new players have been added. Warne is still working on further signings. Here’s a roundup of the latest Derby transfer news and rumors.
£1.4m Transfer Agreed for New Goalkeeper
Derby have been searching for a replacement for Joe Wildsmith, but it has been challenging. Targets like Viktor Johanssen and Mathew Ryan have joined other clubs, and wages have been a sticking point in a potential move for Marek Rodak.
However, Derby’s search may be over as they have agreed on a £1.4 million fee for Swedish goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom from Djurgårdens IF. While the deal is agreed upon and a medical is scheduled, fans might have to wait a bit longer as Zetterstrom is set to play in Djurgårdens’ Europa Conference League qualifiers this week and next.
Derby Confirm David Ozoh
In addition to pursuing a striker, Derby have leveraged the loan market by signing David Ozoh from Crystal Palace. The 19-year-old midfielder, who impressed against Manchester City, joins on a season-long loan. Patrick Vieira previously described Ozoh as ‘gifted,’ making this a notable signing for the Rams.
Derby County Want Rangers Winger Scott Wright
Darren Witcoop reported that Derby, Sheffield Wednesday, and Preston have all inquired about Rangers winger Scott Wright. With 112 appearances for the Scottish club, Wright has scored 12 goals and provided seven assists. Warne is seeking a versatile wide player, and Wright could be a strategic addition.
Warne in ‘No Rush’ to Let Dajaune Brown Leave on Loan
While there haven’t been many outgoing transfers recently, Warne plans to loan out some young players for experience. Dajaune Brown, who performed well on loan at Gateshead, is attracting interest. However, Warne is not in a hurry to let him go, emphasizing that the team’s needs come first. “I’m in no rush to let him go, but I also don’t want to hinder his progress,” Warne said.
Derby ‘Remain Keen’ on Daniel Iversen
Derby previously expressed interest in Leicester City goalkeeper Daniel Iversen. While Warne initially wanted to take him on loan, Leicester now prefers a permanent transfer. Derby remain interested, but Leicester’s £1.5 million asking price is a hurdle, especially since Iversen is in the final year of his contract. This situation is worth monitoring, particularly after Derby’s bid for Zetterstrom was accepted.