A journalist has now dropped an update on the future of one ‘exceptional’ Derby County target ahead of the transfer window opening.
The transfer window opens in a couple of weeks and Derby are preparing for a busy summer of business.
Paul Warne is assessing his options and will be looking for ways to upgrade his squad after letting go of six first-team players.
In what he describes as the toughest Championship he’s seen in years, the Rams must bolster their squad with quality, particularly in the attacking third, to stand any chance of staying up.
Derby have been linked with several players already as the transfer rumour mill heats up, including interest in Oxford United’s Josh Murphy, a permanent move for Cardiff City’s Ebou Adams and released Barnsley midfielder, Herbie Kane.
Interest has also been attributed to taking Celtic midfielder Bosun Lawal on loan, with journalist Alan Nixon sharing an update on the 20-year-old.
Alan Nixon shares an update on Bosun Lawal to Derby County
Lawal is a promising young centre-back who flourished in an advanced midfield role during his loan spell at Fleetwood Town last term, scoring six and assisting twice in 42 League One appearances.
The youngster’s contributions to the Cod Army drew “exceptional” praise from EFL pundit Carlton Palmer who urged him to join Derby on loan.
It’s a move that would make perfect sense for the player as he looks ready to step up to the Championship, and that appears to be the next stage in his development.
Unfortunately, an update from Alan Nixon claims his parent club, Celtic, is ‘likely to look’ at him first during pre-season before deciding on his future.
Bosun Lawal would fill the midfield void for Derby County
Celtic may deem Lawal ready to make the transition into the senior squad in pre-season but if they fancy sending him on loan, Derby should rush to pick him up.
Following several outgoings, including Max Bird, Conor Hourihane and Korey Smith, Warne is left with Tyrese Fornah and academy graduates Liam Thompson and Darren Robinson as his midfield options.
It highlights the need for Derby to bolster their engine room with depth and an all-action midfielder in the shape of Lawal could be an ideal starting point.
As per Sofascore, the Republic of Ireland under-21 international averaged 1.2 shots per game, created six big chances and made 1.9 tackles alongside 2.9 clearances per match in League One, demonstrating his versatility.
Derby require versatility and numbers to their depleted midfield so snapping up Lawal would be a great signing.