Derby County fans will be hoping for a busy transfer window following their promotion to the Championship.
Derby County have already released their retained list, with Dwight Gayle, Conor Hourihane, Scott Loach, Korey Smith, Martyn Waghorn and Joe Wildsmith all leaving the club.
The Rams’ midfield is also looking significantly weaker with both Ebou Adams and Max Bird departing at the end of their loan spells.
While the latter brings an end to his 14-year association with Derby, they are reportedly eager to sign Adams permanently this summer.
The 28-year-old has been ‘immense’ this season and will surely be eager to return to Pride Park, however it is believed that Cardiff City want double the amount that they are preparing to pay.
Paul Warne is going to desperately need to bolster his midfield, especially if they can’t afford Adams.
Here are three Ebou Adams alternatives that the Rams could sign.
Three Ebou Adams alternatives for Derby County to sign
Ethan Erhahon
Ethan Erhahon played a key role in a hugely successful season for Lincoln City, but they face losing their star man after missing out on the play-offs.
The Imps are hoping to generate a club-record transfer fee for his exit, which could be around £2m.
The midfielder has made 43 appearances in the third tier this season, scoring two goals and providing four assists.
He also has the fifth-most tackles (107) and the third-most interceptions (68) in League One this season.
Marc Leonard
Marc Leonard joined Northampton on loan in 2022 and helped them win promotion to League One, before rejoining them on loan again last summer.
The 22-year-old made the third-most tackles (116), the fourth-most interceptions (67) and the third-most passes blocked (55) in League One.
The midfielder’s form in the third tier has attracted interest from the likes of Preston, Coventry and Swansea, with Brighton likely to sell him.
If Derby can afford to meet his valuation, then it could be a real steal for them.
Paddy McNair
Paddy McNair has bags of experience in the Championship, having spent the last six years with Middlesbrough.
The Northern Ireland international was hailed as‘excellent’ and ‘the best player’ that Neil Warnock has ever managed back in 2020.
Having been released by Boro, McNair could be a really good addition to a recently-promoted club.
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