Derby County are set to make their first signing of the January transfer window..
The Rams have been working hard to bolster their squad this month, as they look to secure promotion back to the Championship.
However, they had so far had no luck, most recently seeing their £250,000 bid for Charlton Athletic forward Corey Blackett-Taylor turned down.
Derby had also been linked with the likes of Freddie Ladapo, Conor Coventry and Charlie Savage, but had so far failed to land any of their targets.
However, Paul Warne’s side now look to be closing in on their first arrival.
According to journalist Darren Witcoop, a deal for Sheffield Wednesday striker Michael Smith will ‘get done’ in January.
Witcoop had reported earlier this month that Derby had expressed interest in signing Smith in summer and were now ready to make another approach.
The 32-year-old has netted 23 goals in 65 games since joining the club in 2022, while he has a total of 75 goals in League One to his name.
Smith has struggled with injuries this term, but has only managed seven starts and has been an unused substitute on four occasions.
Witcoop reported that The Owls were eager to bring in a replacement before they allowed Smith to leave, and have since landed Troyes’ Ike Ugbo on loan. This means Derby could soon confirm the arrival of the veteran forward.
Is Michael Smith a sensible signing?
Derby County already have James Collins and Martyn Waghorn to lead the line at Pride Park, but Michael Smith’s experience in League One could certainly provide them with a boost.
The striker has won promotion from the third tier three times – most recently netting 16 goals to help Sheffield Wednesday return to the Championship.
Smith will provide healthy competition for the Derby attackers, though it would be surprising to see him take Collins’ spot in the starting line-up.
The 33-year-old has eleven league goals this season and has bagged three in his last two appearances. Waghorn also has pretty much a goal every two games for The Rams.
The age of Derby’s strikers are quite concerning, given that they are all in their 30s – including the injured Conor Washington. However, Paul Warne needs experience, leadership and goals right now, and if these veterans can give him that then it is a temporary solution.
Promotion to the Championship may offer different requirements though, and Derby will have to dive straight back into the transfer market in the summer.