Latest Derby County news from DerbyshireLive brings you what a rundown of all the transfer rumours so far
Derby County are set for a busy summer in the transfer market as they prepare to revamp their squad ahead of their return to the Championship.
The window does not open until next month and the Rams are expected to concentrate their efforts on signing a goalkeeper and a new midfield, while two strikers are also thought to be on the agenda.
Derbyshire Live looks at the news and speculation already out there as head coach Paul Warne plots his summer signings…
Derby County have been linked with a move for Oxford United’s play-off final hero Joshua Murphy.
The Rams are one of many clubs who are keen on the former £11m winger whose brace against Bolton at Wembley at the weekend sealed their promotion to the Championship. Portsmouth and a host of Championship and League One sides are keen on the 29-year-old who is out of contract and available on a free transfer.
Murphy, who graced the Premier League with Cardiff, has had an excellent year individually in which he scored 10 goals this season and has played a key role in Oxford’s rise to the second tier. Oxford will be keen to keep one of their prized assets, but face significant competition from a host of clubs that could offer a bigger salary.
But speaking to sportsboom.com, the former England Under-20 is loving life at the Us and hinted that he is keen to commit to the club with a new deal.
“I’d love to be in these colours next year,” Murphy said. “I’m happy and settled at this club. I’m still enjoying it. I am buzzing for the gaffer (Des Buckingham), it’s been an up and down time since he’s been here. But I think he’s a brilliant coach and a brilliant manager, he got what he deserves. I’m just happy for him and the boys.”
Derby County have been linked with a move for Barnsley midfielder Herbie Kane on a free transfer.
The Rams are said to be keen on the former Liverpool prospect who is out of contract this summer.
Kane is said to want to play in the Championship after Barnsley’s failure to get promoted with the Tykes having lost in the playoffs in the last two seasons. The 25-year-old has been a big performer for Barnsley this season despite their playoff heartache having scored nine goals and registered five assists.
He won player of the month back in January but is unlikely to want to commit to a new Barnsley deal in favour of a fresh challenge. Derby will revamp their squad this summer as they plot their return to the second tier after their glorious promotion from League One and midfield is a key area particularly with Max Bird heading to Bristol City.
Speaking about his promotion hopes earlier this year, Kane had targeted promotion and said: “I’ve been close to promotion three times now, it’s frustrating and at the time you are very disappointed.
“I am trying to get as many goals and assists which is always going to help me and it reverts back to the team as well.” It’s something that I want to do and I’m ready to do that. Hopefully this season we can get that promotion.”
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