Corey Blackett-Taylor has explained what made him really want to join Derby County.
Corey Blackett-Taylor had been subject to interest from Derby County for much of the January transfer window, with The Rams seeing a £250,000 bid rejected earlier this month.
The winger has proven himself to be a huge attacking threat for Charlton Athletic this season, netting eight goals and bagging six assists.
Derby were eager to bolster their own frontline with the addition of Blackett-Taylor, though it was expected that Charlton would sell him permanently after entering the final six months of his contract.
However, Paul Warne‘s side have instead confirmed that he has joined on loan until the end of the season for a £300,000, before kickstarting a three-year deal in the summer.
It is understand that Warne had been targeting Blackett-Taylor for a long time, while the feeling appears to be mutual after the 26-year-old admitted that he had really wanted to play under the former Rotherham United boss.
Speaking to the club, Blackett-Taylor said: “It feels good. I’ve spoken to the manager a few times. There was interest last summer but I’m just happy to be here now and finally get it done.
“He’s [Warne] been massive. I like to go into clubs where I have a clear understanding of what the manager wants from me and how he sees me fitting into the team, and he was essential in that.
“I feel like there’s a certain belief that he has in me. I think I thrive personally when I feel I have the backing of a manager. I feel like I can play free here, he’s got trust in me and feels I can keep going on and keep getting better. As a player, that’s the kind of guy I like to play for.”
Can Corey Blackett-Taylor get Derby County promoted?
Corey Blackett-Taylor has looked to be exactly the kind of player Derby County need this term.
The attacker has the second-most shots (61) and the most key passes (41) in Charlton’s squad, as well as the most successful dribbles in the whole of League One (66).
Blackett-Taylor could be the missing puzzle piece to an exceptional attack at Pride Park, and one that can hopefully push Derby County on to challenge for the title and confirm promotion.
The Aston Villa academy graduate has only ever made one appearance in the Championship, so if Derby are promoted, they will have to hope he can replicate his brilliant performances further up the football pyramid.
£300k could prove to be a real bargain though, even if he just contributes to their potential promotion in a few months time.