Derby County currently lead the race to make a loan move for a Premier League youngster.
Derby County manager Paul Warne has been very vocal throughout the transfer window in making it clear that he wants players through the door, whilst also emphasising the need to strengthen individual positions.
Warne is currently setting his sights on the signing of a goalkeeper, however there is an ongoing ‘complication’ that has delayed a deal being confirmed.
Midfield signings have also been prioritised throughout the window, with Warne adamant to bring in ‘three or four more midfielders’, despite already confirming the signings of Ben Osborn, Kenzo Goudmijn and a permanent deal to bring Ebou Adams back to the club following a brilliant loan spell last season at Derby County.
Warne looks on-track to meet his midfield targets, as he moves closer to bringing his next signing through the door.
Derby County move ahead in race for Crystal Palace’s David Ozoh, with deal likely to be completed ‘next week’
Derby County are now expected to sign Crystal Palace’s David Ozoh, as the Rams ‘lead the race’ to sign the young midfielder, per Darren Witcoop on X.
Warne had previously stated that it was likely that a new signing was going to be joining soon, with it being likely that the undisclosed player is in fact Ozoh, who Derby County ‘hope to complete a deal next week’ for.
Derby County have managed to ‘lead the race’ to sign the youngster ahead of ‘four Championship clubs’.
The Spanish-born defensive-midfielder has been given first team opportunities in the Premier League with Crystal Palace, having tallied 10 Premier League appearances in his career, despite just being 19-years-old.
Why David Ozoh is a perfect utility signing for Derby County
Although Ozoh is usually utilised in defensive-midfield, he is naturally gifted to play anywhere in central-midfield, something that will be crucial for Warne’s plans.
Warne made it clear that he was looking for multiple additions in the midfield on-top of the players that have already come through the doors of Pride Park.
His initial desire to bring ‘three or four’ more through the door may be quite optimistic from Warne, especially considering the desperate need to strengthen in-between the sticks, as well as bringing in a striker.
However, Ozoh will be crucial in having the ability to take on various roles in the midfield, with him having the ability to move slightly further forward if called upon to do so.
Although Ozoh has the raw talent that he has showcased during his short stint in getting Premier League experience, the 19-year-old will be seen as a blank canvas by Warne, who will be able to morph the youngster into playing any role in the centre of the park that will need to be filled.