With less than two weeks until the Championship season begins, Derby County is actively working to strengthen their squad through the transfer market.
After earning promotion from League One last season under Paul Warne, Derby County is preparing for their return to the second tier. Warne has had little time to celebrate as he focuses on reshaping the squad.
The team has aimed to increase quality and lower the average age of the squad, achieving much of this so far. However, key areas still need attention before the transfer window closes at the end of August.
One pressing issue is the goalkeeper position, following the summer departures of Joe Wildsmith and Scott Loach. While Josh Vickers is a reliable option, Derby is looking to bring in additional players.
Jacob Widell Zetterstrom Transfer Latest
Jacob Widell Zetterstrom is the leading candidate to become Derby’s new starting goalkeeper. Reports indicate that Derby has had a £1.4 million bid accepted for Zetterstrom from Swedish club Djurgarden.
Despite the agreement, Zetterstrom has not yet arrived at Moor Farm, as Djurgarden is currently competing in Europa Conference League qualifiers. The clubs have agreed that Zetterstrom will participate in these matches before joining Derby.
Djurgarden’s chief, Bosse Andersson, confirmed that Zetterstrom has flown to England for a transfer meeting. Andersson told Aftonbladet, “His mother is waiting outside, so he will go to London. We have a discussion, we agree on the terms, but an important part is that you get to go there and get to know each other.”
The 26-year-old goalkeeper is expected to meet Derby representatives before returning to Sweden on Monday night. Djurgarden faces FC Progres in Luxembourg on Thursday for the second leg of their Europa Conference League qualifiers, leading 3-0 from the first leg.
Andersson added, “All coaches want their goalkeeper as soon as possible. But Derby is well aware of our situation. We have Scandinavia’s best goalkeeper and are out playing in Europe, so we have a good dialogue.”
Derby County Transfer Plan
Zetterstrom’s later-than-expected arrival raises questions about the suitability of the deal. However, Derby’s new approach to transfers, including entering the European market for players, suggests patience may be needed.
The success of the new goalkeeper remains to be seen, but this shift in transfer strategy is a refreshing change for the club. If Zetterstrom proves to be the right fit financially and for the coaching staff, patience will be worthwhile.