Over a month into the summer transfer window, Derby County has already brought six new players into the fold. Following their promotion to the Championship last season, a significant squad overhaul was essential to avoid relegation. This summer, the Rams released seven players on free transfers, many of whom were pivotal to their top-two finish.
Among the departures were Conor Hourihane and Louis Sibley, who collectively contributed 19 goals before leaving the club. Joe Wildsmith, who earned the League One Golden Glove, also exited in a surprising move to West Brom, after an exceptional season. The search for Wildsmith’s replacement is ongoing, with no new goalkeeper signed yet.
Derby was recently linked with Marek Rodak, a former Fulham goalkeeper released by the Premier League club this summer. Despite making only two league appearances in two years, Rodak was seen as a potential fit for Derby. However, interest has stalled, and competition for his signature has intensified, with Hull City emerging as a strong contender.
Journalist Alan Nixon reported on his Patreon that Hull City is keen on Rodak but faces challenges meeting his wage demands. Hull needs experienced players after selling Ryan Allsop to Birmingham, and Rodak seems suitable for their needs. However, his wage expectations have deterred clubs like Burnley, Blackburn Rovers, and Derby County.
Rodak was earning around £15,000 per week at Fulham, which, while low by Premier League standards, would make him Derby’s highest-paid player, nearly doubling their current top earner’s wages. Although it’s unlikely he would demand the same salary in the Championship, Derby would still need to allocate a significant portion of their budget to sign him.
Given Rodak’s experience in the lower leagues, including three promotions, he brings valuable experience. However, Derby might find their funds better spent elsewhere. Additionally, with clubs like Burnley and Hull having more financial flexibility, Derby manager Paul Warne faces an uphill battle to secure Rodak’s signature.