Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes has admitted that reported Derby County target Sam Cosgrove is likely to move clubs for the right fee, Scotsman report.
Cosgrove enjoyed a terrific campaign at Pittodrie, netting 23 goals including 20 before the New Year which saw him match a record dating back to the 70s.
The 6ft 4inch striker’s form has attracted plenty of interest.
A report in January by the Evening Express claimed Championship trio Derby, Middlesbrough and Stoke City were all keen having sent scouts to watch him.
But the latest club to push for his signature was Guingamp. The Scottish Sun claimed Cosgrove turned down the French side after a £2.7 million fee was agreed.
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McInnes has since confirmed the offer, while admitting Cosgrove could leave.
If it’s a strong offer, it has to be looked at in the circumstances. We’ve been pretty strong about the fact we won’t sell willy-nilly, but the overall package [from Guingamp] was substantial. And we know that this window and next is the best chance for us to maximise the potential of Sam because he’s got two seasons left of his deal. It was entirely his decision but I don’t think it was financially right for him or he thought that France was his next step.
Derby must look at their attacking options this summer. Chris Martin’s contract with the Rams is expiring, while Jack Marriott has suffered from persistent injuries.
The Rams have improved under manager Phillip Cocu. However, the current Derby squad needs added quality if it is to mount a promotion charge next season.
Cocu enjoyed great success in Holland with Luuk de Jong up top. Cosgrove is a similar type of player – a battering ram who can hold the ball up and find the net.
The 23-year-old only cost Aberdeen a bargain £25,000 from Carlisle United two years ago.
The Dons stand to make a decent profit should they sell him this summer. If Derby are serious in their interest, they now know the price it will take to sign him.
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