Derby County praised for "statement of intent" start to transfer window - Championship sent "shock" warning | OneFootball

FLW's Derby County fan pundit has been speaking on the Rams' summer transfer window so far.

This article is part of Football League World's 'Terrace Talk' series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more... Derby County are closing in on a deal to sign Charlotte FC striker Patrick Agyemang.

Their $7m/£5.1m bid, reported by ESPN, follows their recent capture of experienced forward Carlton Morris from Luton Town.

With the Rams having finished a lowly 19th last season, it appears they mean business ahead of the new campaign.

We asked our Derby fan pundit, Shaun Woodward, whether these two deals should be a warning shot for the rest of the Championship.

Derby County claim made amid Carlton Morris, Patrick Agyemang deals

Speaking to Football League World, Shaun said: “Eustace clearly knew the areas we needed to strengthen in if we were going to be competitive this season, and that was obvious for everyone to see.

“We needed goals in the team. We needed power, we needed pace.

“So I think the Morris signing was a real statement of intent. He's a leader, he's big, he's strong. He's scored goals in the Premier League, and he will really, really help us massively up top, a real focal point.

“I think if we can sign Agyemang, he's another big, strong lad. He's young, he's got pace as well. So, another really exciting option to have up there.

“You get a couple of wide players to support them and to give them service, and then I think we could be a real force in that league because we've always been solid at the back.

“We've always had a strong backline, and with Ebou Adams in the middle. So, we've got a solid platform to build from. So if we add a few exciting flair players out wide and bring these two lads up front, then our starting XI is going to start to really take shape.

“I do think we'll shock a few teams this season, so I'm getting really excited about what's to come under Eustace and long may it continue.”

Derby could be a dark horse next term

Plenty questioned Eustace’s move from play-off-chasing Blackburn Rovers to relegation-threatened Derby last season, dropping down the Championship table to take charge of the Rams.

However, Derby’s early transfer business suggests the 45-year-old may have made a smart call.

It’s clear the owners are ready to invest to try and climb further up the second tier, with Morris providing plenty of experience in a shrewd free transfer, and the club committing significant funds to the pursuit of 24-year-old Agyemang.

Goalscoring was a clear issue for Derby last season, registering fewer (48) than relegated Plymouth Argyle (51) across the season. In fact, the Rams plundered almost exactly half of the 95 strikes managed by league winners Leeds United.

If Derby want to be anywhere near the promotion picture in the near future, it’s clear where improvements need to be made.

Judging by this early business, it’s clear that the club's hierarchy have also recognised the issue, and look to be going the right way about solving it.