'I understand' - Journalist drops fresh Derby County transfer update after takeover collapse | OneFootball

Derby County are expected to try and secure new signings after Turki Alalshikh's failed takeover, with central midfield and wingers a priority.

Derby County are ‘getting to work’ on bringing in new signings after Turki Alalshikh’s takeover fell through, with a new winger and central midfielder a priority for the recruitment team.

In a hugely surprising development, it was announced on Monday evening that Lion Sport, the company controlled by Saudi businessman Alalshikh, had walked away from their bid to purchase the Rams, even though the deal had been approved by the EFL and Independent Football Regulator.

With the boxing promoter having spent months working on a deal, that twist came as a real shock, and it naturally left fans wondering how much it had impacted Derby in the transfer market.

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Derby County transfer update shared after takeover failure

Given Alalshikh’s wealth, the Rams would probably have been in for a different calibre of player had he completed his deal to buy the club.

Therefore, even though Derby have brought in four new signings this summer, they understandably may have been waiting for the takeover to go through before pursuing other targets.

So, even though there was a disappointment that the takeover didn’t happen, it has at least offered some clarity for the club.

And, it appears they are now ready to make moves in the market, as journalist Dominic Dietrich has revealed that two key positions are on their radar.

“Nearly 24 hours on now from the news that rocked Derby County yesterday, I understand the club are getting to work on their targets. Out wide is a priority and centre midfield. Club still committed to using the headroom they have financially in line with SCR.”

Derby County must address lack of depth in central midfield and out wide

This is an encouraging update for Derby, as whilst you can’t read too much into pre-season, and one EFL Cup tie against fellow Championship side Lincoln City, the reality is that the team does look short in key areas.

Most would agree that central midfield is a priority, and they are also lacking speed and quality out wide.

Obviously, last season, David Ozoh was a key player in the middle of the park, and it would be a major boost if they could bring him back to Pride Park. If not, though, they will need a player with a comparable profile.

Similarly, Jaydon Banel was a hugely influential player on the wing in the final months of the campaign, but he has now returned to Burnley, so he needs to be replaced.

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Derby County can challenge for promotion this season

Now that this situation has been resolved, Derby can look forward to the new season knowing where they stand, and it’s important to remember that they are in a strong position.

Eustace’s side missed out on the play-offs on the final day of the previous campaign, so, with the new format in place, there is no reason why they shouldn’t be aiming for a top eight finish this season.

As outlined above, they are in need of reinforcements, so the next few weeks will be massive in terms of reshaping the squad, and it will be intriguing to see what business they can get done.

Derby could be competing at the top of the Championship this season.