Derby County’s summer preparations are well underway ahead of their first season back in the Championship.
Paul Warne let go of six first-team players who approached the end of their contracts at Derby.
The Rams boss is now assessing his options in the transfer market as he aims to bolster his squad.
That won’t be easy though as Warne believes Derby need everything, in what he describes as the strongest Championship he’s seen.
Derby’s biggest priorities are replacing Joe Wildsmith in goal, adding a couple of reinforcements to their midfield and finding a proven goal scorer.
Luckily, there is plenty of value to be had in the free transfer market. So, with that in mind, here are four Premier League players Derby could sign on a free…
Arthur Okonkwo
Warne’s biggest priority is finding a new No.1 to replace Wildsmith, who they shockingly released from the club.
A goalkeeper they should consider snapping up is youngster Arthur Okonkwo.
The 22-year-old was recently released from his contract at Arsenal and is touted to join a Championship club this summer after a fine campaign at Wrexham.
Okonkwo impressed in Wales with his reflex saves and was even named in the League Two Team of the Season.
Described as having “real potential” by Phil Parkinson, snapping up the 6 ft 6 shot-stopper could be a superb piece of business.
Luke Berry
Luton Town announced their list of released players following their relegation from the Premier League and long-serving Luke Berry was one of the individuals named.
Berry played at every single level of the Football League with the Hatters and even turned out 13 times in the top flight last term.
The 31-year-old, who is known for his cannon of a strike and excellent passing range, is now looking for a new challenge.
Derby recently let go of Conor Hourihane and need to replace his creativity from open play and set-pieces. Berry – who scored 26 and assisted 17 at Luton – could be the ideal successor.
Josh Bowler
Whilst Nottingham Forest are yet to announce their retained list, Josh Bowler will likely be one of the players leaving the club.
The 25-year-old flourished on loan at Cardiff City last term and although he only scored five goals in 38 appearances, he was a constant nuisance to defend against with his pace and directness.
Derby are currently looking for a new wide player, perhaps to challenge Corey Blackett-Taylor for a place in the side, and Bowler could make that spot his own on the right flank.
After all, the former Everton youth player was praised by David Unsworth as ‘terrific’ during his time at Goodison Park.
Divin Mubama
Much like Forest, West Ham are yet to release their retained list, but one player who could depart is Divin Mubama.
The teenage striker turned down a contract offer last year and now won’t be offered a new deal, according to reports, as he struggled to secure regular playing time under David Moyes.
With his contract expiring this summer, the Hammers could let the youngster depart and Derby should swoop in.
Mubama is a pacey, strong and athletic striker who would learn a lot from veteran James Collins and the other experienced players.
The 19-year-old has impressed during his brief introduction to the first team, scoring in a Europa Conference League tie against AEK Larnaca in 2022/23.
Whilst it remains to be seen what his future in East London holds, Derby could offer him the promise of regular football, spearheading their attack in the Championship.
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