Cardiff City manager Mick McCarthy has labelled former Derby County target Kieffer Moore terrific after the striker netted his 20th goal of the season, Wales Online report.
Moore joined Cardiff last summer for a bargain £2 million.
The Wales international was in high demand after Wigan Athletic’s relegation to League One, and Derby were among the clubs keen to bring him in.
The Rams had already raided Wigan for Nathan Byrne and David Marshall.
Wales Online claimed former Derby boss Phillip Cocu wanted to add him to his squad at Pride Park, but Cardiff ultimately won the race for his signature.
MORE DERBY STORIES
Moore has since gone on to score 20 Championship goals for the Bluebirds this season, prompting manager McCarthy to dub him terrific while predicting summer interest.
“He’s been terrific. Not only that, when he’s not scored he has been on the pitch almost every minute of every game. The shift he puts in every week is amazing. We have not got a direct replacement for him, so he has played all the games. He’s been terrific. A real threat and a very effective centre forward. You sign players, they score 20-odd goals, you get interest from other people, there’s nothing you can do about it,” McCarthy explained.
Moore has enjoyed a superb campaign. Aside from his 20 goals, the 28-year-old also tops the Championship charts for aerial duels won, averaging 10.8 per game.
Overall, statistical website Whoscored rank him as the second best performing player in the Championship this season behind Norwich City playmaker Emiliano Buendia.
Derby are crying out for a striker of his ilk after Chris Martin’s departure last summer.
Colin Kazim-Richards has done well, scoring eight goals this season, but the 34-year-old isn’t a long-term option for the Rams while his influence of late has waned.
The Rams must look at strengthening their striker options this summer.
Martyn Waghorn’s contract expires at the end of the season, while Lee Gregory will return to parent club Stoke City at the end of his loan spell leaving few options at Pride Park.
Also see: Simon Jordan reiterates Rooney stance, advises Derby to change manager this summer
Also see: ‘Done well’: Rooney highlights aspect of Derby’s display against Blues which pleased him