Derby County are nearing a deal to sign Jacob Widell Zetterstrom from Swedish club Djurgardens, concluding their search for a new goalkeeper following Joe Wildsmith’s departure this summer.
Since Wildsmith left the club as a free agent, Josh Vickers has been Paul Warne’s go-to, but the search for a new primary goalkeeper has been ongoing. Among the names linked were Marek Rodak and Daniel Iversen, but it appears Derby has settled on a move for Zetterstrom. Reports indicate an agreement has been reached with Djurgardens, and the club’s sporting director has all but confirmed the transfer.
However, Zetterstrom’s move is slightly delayed as he remains crucial for Djurgardens in their Europa Conference League qualifiers.
In the recent match against Luxembourg’s FC Progres, Zetterstrom played a key role as Djurgardens secured a 3-0 victory, thanks to goals from Gustav Wikheim and Deniz Hummet. Here are three observations from his performance that Derby fans might find interesting:
1. Impressive Frame
Zetterstrom’s imposing presence was notable even though he wasn’t frequently called into action. Standing at approximately six feet six inches, his height allowed him to make an acrobatic save on a long-range shot that seemed destined for the top-right corner, showcasing his ability to make crucial stops.
2. Distribution Skills
Zetterstrom often chose to kick the ball long, demonstrating accuracy in finding teammates downfield. While his long kicks were effective, he also showed the ability to play short passes, rolling the ball to defenders to maintain possession. This versatility in distribution will be vital for Derby as Warne aims to diversify their attacking strategies.
3. Vibrant Personality
Beyond his on-field abilities, Zetterstrom’s vibrant personality stands out. His spirited celebration, running from his goal to the opposite end when Djurgardens scored their third, reflects the kind of enthusiasm and character that can boost team morale. Such traits are valuable for any dressing room, aligning well with Warne’s focus on managing both players and their personalities.
With Zetterstrom set to join Derby soon, the club is poised to strengthen their squad further. His arrival, pending the completion of Europa Conference League commitments, promises to be a significant addition for the Rams ahead of the new season.