Derby County clinched promotion to the Championship and now shifts focus to their out-of-contract players, with 12 set to depart, including notable names like Louie Sibley and Conor Hourihane. The Rams are considering targeting James Tomkins for his experience, although potential wage concerns may complicate the deal.
The club’s recent promotion victory marks a significant achievement, but attention swiftly turns to the upcoming summer, where Derby faces decisions on players’ futures. With 12 departures expected, including key figures, discussions are already in progress to shape the squad for the challenges of the Championship next season.
| Derby County players out of contract, as per Transfermarkt | |
|---|---|
| Player | Position |
| Louie Sibley | LM |
| Joe Wildsmith | GK |
| Tom Barkhuizen | LW |
| Liam Thompson | CM |
| Dwight Gayle | ST |
| Conor Hourihane | CM |
| Corey Smith | CM |
| James Collins | ST |
| Craig Forsyth | LB |
| Martyn Waghorn | ST |
| Darren Robinson | CM |
| Scott Loach | GK |
But the Rams will also want to strengthen heading back to the Championship, and could be reunited with a player who played seven games for them 16 years ago.
James Tomkins released by Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace recently announced that James Tomkins will be departing the club at the end of the season. The 35-year-old defender joined Selhurst Park in 2016 from West Ham United and made 135 appearances for the Eagles, notably contributing to their successful 2018/19 Premier League campaign.
However, this season, Tomkins has seen limited playing time, making only four appearances, mostly from the substitutes’ bench, as other players like Joachim Andersen, Marc Guehi, and Chris Richards have taken priority. With new head coach Oliver Glasner at the helm, Palace has decided to part ways with Tomkins after his eight-year tenure, allowing him to explore opportunities with other clubs as he nears the later stages of his career.
Paul Warne could consider bringing James Tomkins to Pride Park
Tomkins might contemplate returning to Pride Park, where he had a brief loan stint in the 2008/09 season. That period with Derby helped him break into West Ham’s first team under Gianfranco Zola, leading to an extensive career with 243 appearances for the Hammers and later joining Crystal Palace.
Considering Tomkins’ experience at the highest levels and his 51 appearances in the Championship, he could be a valuable addition for Warne to evaluate. However, his current wages, estimated at £50,000 per week by Capology, could pose a challenge for Derby.
Nevertheless, Tomkins’ leadership qualities and experience could fill a potential void left by departing players, balancing the squad’s mix of youth and experience that proved successful in their promotion campaign. While the deal may involve a one or two-year contract, pursuing Tomkins could enhance Derby’s chances of another Championship promotion under Warne’s leadership.
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