Transfer verdict issued on 18-goal striker as Derby County plot summer deals

Adie Moses believes Devante Cole is a potential option for top League One clubs this summer, but does not see him leading the charge for Derby County in the Championship.

Cole is free to join another club this summer after being released by the Tykes, where he led the team in scoring with 18 goals this season. However, after losing to Bolton in the playoffs, Barnsley chose not to offer the 29-year-old a new contract.

Derby are looking for a new center-forward this summer to prepare for their return to the Championship, which has heightened interest among clubs. Cole was in top form until February, but his goals dried up in the final stages of the season, after he had threatened to win the golden boot.

However, Moses, a former Barnsley defender who now works as a BBC summariser for the Tykes, told Derbyshire Live that the Rams are not his ideal destination.

“He lost his way a little bit,” he remarked. “What I liked about Cole was how supportive the fans were the previous season. He was running down a cul-de-sac and such, then he turned back. He scored goals, which is what I admired most about him.

“It demonstrates a good strong character when you take criticism from fans and then become one of their favourite players. But, to be honest, I would not have expected him to lead the line for a club like Derby. He appears to be a top-tier League One striker rather than a top-tier Championship player, but that’s just me being honest.”

GET MORE NEWS HERE