Two Last Minute Deals That Derby County Could Complete This Summer
Much like Middlesbrough, Derby County came into the Championship season with ambitions of being the title winners and largely expecting a fast start to the league campaign.
That did not materialise at all when a draw at Sunderland when they were under the cosh for the most part was followed up by a defeat at home to Wolves, two results which brought Rams fans right down to earth as far as title ambitions are concerned.
A narrow win against Preston followed though and with the signing of Tom Lawrence being a major positive for the club, all is not lost on the promotion front. Here are two more they may sign before the window is bolted shut for another four months, starting with the boy who played in the centre of Preston’s midfield at Pride Park last time:
Callum Robinson (Preston North End)
For his part, Robinson has made all the right noises about being happy at Preston North End and has made moves to reassure the fans that his commitment remains solid. He is clearly genuinely enjoying his time at Deepdale and it would take a good deal and a big club to make him move.
In terms of the size of the club, Robinson would not feel he is at a bigger club, though the same could not be said should about Derby. The Rams are still a big deal and probably will have more time in the Premier League in future seasons, which is something Robinson must take into account.
At Pride Park, Robinson could start games on the left of a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 and be given licence to cut inside, something he loves to do and is very adept at.
Sam Gallagher (Southampton)
The Southampton striker could be a smart signing. Although capable of playing on the flanks, Gallagher is an astute striker and is one who is probably better than what he gets credited for.
The gap between the Championship and the upper half of the Premier League becomes apparent when you consider cases like Gallaghers; Southampton always very keen to keep him yet never able to give him a place in their team.
Something has to give and for the player’s sake, he needs regular football. Gallgher got 12 goals in 47 games across all competitions while on loan at Blackburn last season and that is a good record. Consider that he would cope with a long season like that better this time around as he strengthens up.
With those things in mind, I think it’s a no-brainer that he would get 20 goals in the league for a better side this season – what would that make him worth in a year’s time?