Derby County is in dire need of bolstering their squad with more signings before the kick-off of the season to avoid a stumbling start to their campaign.
Despite securing six new players for the upcoming 2024/25 season – namely Ben Osborn, David Ozoh, Ebou Adams, Jerry Yates, Kayden Jackson, and Kenzo Goudmijn – the lackluster performance in the preseason has left fans craving for additional reinforcements.
The absence of Yates, who will be sidelined for the first three matches due to a red card incident in the previous season, amplifies the urgency for a new striker to be brought in, even if it’s just a short-term loan given the looming deadline before the Championship opener.
Manager Paul Warne is keen to resolve the prolonged negotiation saga, with Karamoko Dembélé seeking a return to English football following his loan tenure at Blackpool.
The 21-year-old winger currently plies his trade at French club Stade Brestois after departing Celtic two years ago. However, with limited playing time in Ligue 1, several Championship outfits have shown interest in acquiring his services.
Derby, Sheffield Wednesday, and Portsmouth have reportedly tabled offers for Dembélé, with Portsmouth manager John Mousinho refuting claims of any formal bid to Stade Brest.
Dembele showcased an impressive performance at Blackpool last season in League One, contributing with eight goals and 13 assists in 39 league appearances. His agility and creative prowess could potentially be the missing link Warne’s side requires as they strive for improvement.
With a focus on rejuvenating the squad post having the oldest team in League One last season, Derby has started the process by acquiring Goudmijn and Ozoh recently.
Chelsea striker Mason Burstow emerges as a promising option off the bench for Warne, especially during Yates’ suspension period at the season’s commencement. The 20-year-old, who spent the previous season on loan at Sunderland, offers speed and physicality, complementing the experienced James Collins effectively.
Derby’s striking woes from the previous season, including injuries to key forwards, underline the necessity for a robust attacking lineup. The addition of Burstow could inject vitality into the team and provide much-needed depth in vital areas, preparing them for the challenges of the upcoming season.
While the Rams possess the talented forward Dajaune Brown, fans remain unsure about their attacking choices given Conor Washington’s lackluster performance last season. Burstow might be a late window addition for Warne, offering valuable depth, especially in August. Despite his struggles with the Black Cats, some might have reservations, but many players have bounced back after disappointing EFL loan spells.
