Two Deadline Day Deals That Derby Should Look To Complete
The aim for Mel Morris and Gary Rowett this transfer window has been to get some players out through the door. The need to trim the squad was very clear, with Bent, Shackell, Lowe and possibly Johnny Russell all on their way out.
As deadline day approaches, Gary Rowett will be looking to get at least one more signing over the line. There have been a lot of names linked with a move to Pride Park to help with the promotion push, but it is unlikely any will get over the line until the final day of the window. These are some of the options that Mel Morris and his team will be looking over.
Ademola Lookman
The England Under-20 international may be looking to gain more minutes after a frustrating season in an out of sorts Everton side. The former Charlton winger has only started once in the league this season and has found himself very far down the pecking order under new boss Sam Allardyce.
Despite this, Big Sam seems unwilling to let the player go on loan to Derby, who are looking to replace Johnny Russell who looks set to join Sporting Kansas City before the month is out. Lookman would be a great addition to the Derby squad, and wouldn’t create the fan-backlash of signing a similar player linked with Derby would, in the form of James McClean.
Aden Flint
The Bristol Ciy centre-back was an absolute rock when the two sides met recently, and that performance clearly peaked the interest of the Derby County manager because reports have suggested that the Rams have made a £6million bid for the towering defender. With Derby down to just two senior centre-backs in the squad, the need to strengthen in this area is clear.
But whether Derby would be able to prise away a top player from a direct rival at this point of the season remains to be seen. Rowett clearly likes the player and will probably revisit this transfer in the summer as it would be very hard to get over the line at this late stage. On the other hand, it would be a huge statement of intent if Derby managed to get hold of Flint as it would send a message to the rest of the league that their promotion challenge is not to be taken lightly.