Derby County boss Paul Warne has played down a potential move for West Ham striker Divin Mubama.
Derby County were recently linked with a move for Mubama, 19, who made his Premier League debut for West Ham last season.
The striker has since featured once in the Premier League this time round; against Burnley over the weekend, following reports that Derby County were interested in the Englishman.
It was claimed by Claret and Hugh that the Rams were eyeing a move for Mubama who is out of contract next summer, though it’s not know whether that’s a loan or permanent move; Hammers boss David Moyes is an admirer of Mubama, saying ‘his mentality and attitude are as good as any top player’.
But speaking to Derbyshire Live ahead of tonight’s League One clash vs Port Vale, Warne was quizzed on the Mubama link, to which he replied:
“My honest answer is that I am aware of him as everybody is. But the reality of that happening is slim to zero.”
And Warne has recently discussed what the January transfer window might entail for his side, suggesting that loan signings are more likely than permanent ones.
“Sometimes, because January is a difficult month to do deals whereas the summer they are all free transfers. In fairness, it’s more likely that loans will happen than permanent signings. We have to try to keep pushing the club forward and improve. It would be amiss of me to rule either out.”
Derby County not in for Divin Mubama?
Warne’s comments on Mubama are interesting.
Warne is often quite honest when discussing transfer rumours and he’s often quick to shut down any false stories, so the fact that he hasn’t here suggests that Derby County do have an interest in the player.
But Warne’s comments, the part about ‘everybody’ being aware of Mubama, could also suggest that the Rams aren’t along in their interest and that the club knows this.
He’s certainly a talent and his recent exposure in the Premier League will put him in the shop window ahead of January, with a potential sale looking likely given his contract situation.
Whether he’d fancy dropping all the way down to League One remains to be seen, though.
Mubama may well be holding out for a new deal and a potential place in Moyes’ plans; if not then a Championship move, either permanent or temporary in the New Year.
Derby though could certainly do with some additions in January, specifically in attack with even more strain on James Collins following the injury to Conor Washington.
Derby County vs Port Vale kicks off at 7:45pm tonight.