Exclusive: Derby County backed to beat Birmingham City to "exciting" Koki Saito transfer | OneFootball

Lee Hendrie has told FLW his verdict on Derby County closing in on the signing of Koki Saito

Lee Hendrie believes that Koki Saito could be a very exciting signing for Derby County amid competition from Birmingham City and QPR.

It has been reported by Mike McGrath that the Rams have had an offer accepted for the player by Swiss side Lommel.

The 24-year-old spent last season on loan with QPR, where he made 39 appearances in the Championship to help the team finish 15th in the table.

He contributed three goals and two assists, and now looks set for a return to English football after an offer for the £5 million-rated player was agreed.

Lee Hendrie expects positive impact at Derby from Koki Saito

Hendrie believes that Saito could be an exciting addition at Derby, and that he fits the bill for what John Eustace’s side needs.

While the Rams have lost both of their opening games this season, he expects the team to gel really well once all of their summer signings have settled in their new surroundings.

“They’ve made a hell of a lot of signings this summer, and it’s just a matter of time before it all gels,” Hendrie exclusively told Football League World.

“Saito certainly would be an exciting one for them.

“I just think [he offers] that craft and flair in midfield, which they need at the moment.

“When you think the likes of Birmingham, who are one of the favourites to go up this season, would easily be attractive.

“But I think the fact he probably will get more game time at Derby County - he might be a little gem they might bring in.”

Derby have added the likes of Carlton Morris, Patrick Agyemang, Rhian Brewster, Andreas Weimann, Danny Batth and Richard O’Donnell on a permanent basis.

Loan deals for Bobby Clark, Dion Sanderson, Owen Beck and David Ozoh have also been completed.

Koki Saito signing fits the bill for Derby

Saito would add some extra attacking depth for Derby, and give Eustace an alternative in many positions given the Japan international’s versatility.

We saw in the 5-3 loss to Coventry City last weekend that the team’s forward line is starting to fire, but potentially at the cost of some defensive solidity.

Saito might help address that issue and provide some balance to the team, which might be what they need to start really clicking.

Derby have made a lot of signings this summer, so it’s no real surprise that they’ve made a slow start, but the addition of Saito could help it all come together.