Derby County are in the mix for automatic promotion this season and while transfer plans won’t begin until they know what division they are in, there could be a few players available for free that could take their fancy.
Despite losing their last two matches in League One, Derby are on track to achieve automatic promotion this season.
Paul Warne’s side are level on points with Bolton Wanderers in second position but they do have a superior goal difference.
In their current situation, planning for next season will be the last thing on their minds, although it wouldn’t hurt for the Rams to look at the players whose contracts are expiring in the summer.
With the potential to land a few bargains, here are three players Derby could sign for free in the summer…
Greg Docherty (Hull City)
After spending four years at the club, Greg Docherty sees his contract expire at Hull City expire in the summer.
With the options Liam Rosenior has at his disposal in midfield, including the likes of Jean Michael Seri and Regan Slater, it’s unlikely the 27-year-old will be offered renewed terms.
Docherty has only started once in the Championship this term and made 13 appearances from the bench.
As Derby face up to the prospect of losing Max Bird to Bristol City in the summer, they’ll need to sign a midfielder to replace him and the Scottish “machine” could be their man.
Jamie Lindsay (Rotherham)
It feels only a matter of time before Rotherham United’s relegation to League One is confirmed, and Warne could raid his former club by signing midfielder Jamie Lindsay.
The 28-year-old sees his contract expire in June and while it’s unknown as to whether he’ll sign a new one, he could be a solid signing on a free transfer.
Lindsay boasts vast experience playing in the second tier and third tier having accumulated 136 appearances across both divisions.
In the Millers’ fight for survival, the Scot has appeared 15 times and scored once in the defeat to Plymouth Argyle.
Rotherham may decide to offer him a new deal once relegation is confirmed, but if they don’t, Derby should pounce at the chance to sign him on a free transfer.
Stephen Humphrys
Derby are on the lookout for a long-term replacement for striker James Collins, who turns 34 at the end of this year.
Wigan Athletic’s Stephen Humphrys is a target who should be right up their street, especially if he’s available on a free transfer.
Humphrys sees his contract expire this year and given the financial mire that the Latics currently find themselves in, the Rams could take advantage by snapping him up on a free transfer.
The 26-year-old has led the line for Wigan this term and has plundered eight goals in 32 appearances.
While it isn’t the most prolific return, Warne could certainly get the best out of him by pinching him from their League One rivals.