Derby County has secured promotion back to the Championship, ending a two-year stint in League One and signaling a positive future for the club under owner David Clowes. Despite facing challenges in recent times, there is optimism about achieving sustainability in the second tier and potentially beyond.
The club underwent a significant rebuild, initiated by former coach Liam Rosenior, before Paul Warne took charge and led the team to promotion. Although they narrowly missed out on the League One play-offs during Warne’s first season, the subsequent summer presented another opportunity to shape the squad according to his vision.
Several important signings were made during the transfer window, including the acquisition of Conor Washington from Rotherham United.
Conor Washington to Derby transfer fee
Derby signed Washington on an initial free transfer, though there were fees included in the deal should certain milestones be achieved.
One of those was earning promotion from League One, however there haven’t been any clear cut details on the terms of the move.
Until now, as the Rotherham Advertiser claim Washington didn’t play enough games to trigger the promotion clause in the agreement.
That’s not to say the transfer is completely free, as the report states that the striker will command a fee once he hits a certain appearances threshold. However, it is a five-figure sum and thus less than £100,000 in total.
Washington injury history
While it was a season to remember for Derby, there may be some disappointment surrounding the fortunes of Washington during his first season at the club.
The Northern Ireland international suffered an unfortunate ankle injury during the November international break, with subsequent knee issues keeping him out for the majority of the campaign.
With just eight starts and 11 substitute appearances in the league, there will certainly be some hope that the 31-year-old will be available more for the upcoming Championship campaign.
Potential Derby striker options
The summer transfer window offers a chance for Derby to reassess their squad options and strengthen them ahead of the new season.
One area for consideration may be the centre-forward position, with Dwight Gayle, James Collins and Martyn Waghorn all out of contract.
That may open up the possibility for some discussions surrounding incomings that could help bolster those forward ranks and give the Rams the best chance possible of stabilising in the Championship.
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