According to the South London Press and Mercury, Lee Gregory has yet to sign a new deal with Millwall. His situation could alert fellow Championship clubs, and Derby County should be among them.
The Rams are beginning to build a distinct playing style under manager Frank Lampard. They build from the back, press high when out of possession and look to utilise runners in behind.
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But every Championship side could do with a plan B, namely going direct, yet Derby don’t currently have that option. Jack Marriott has led the line superbly since moving to Pride Park last summer, scoring seven goals in 15 league starts. Fellow signing Martyn Waghorn can also feature either as a lone forward or in a wide role.
Beyond those two, though, Derby lack strength and versatility with David Nugent the only other option. The 33-year-old’s contract expires in the summer. With just two goals in 24 appearances in all competitions this term, it’s safe to say his influence is on the wane.
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What could Lee Gregory add to Derby County’s squad?
The Rams will need to look at signing a new striker this coming summer, and Lee Gregory could be a sound option to mix things up.
The 30-year-old striker was incidentally linked with a move to Derby 12 months ago. According to the Daily Mirror paper edition (April 2nd, page 49), then-manager Gary Rowett sought a £750,000 move for him.
Gregory has netted seven goals and provided four assists in 24 Championship starts for Millwall this term. He is fundamental to the way Neil Harris’s side operate, linking the play and providing a focal point upfront.
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Derby lack a striker of this mould, and one who they can throw on late in games to get on the end of crosses.
Gregory’s contract expires in the summer. His situation provides an opportunity for Millwall’s Championship rivals to seek a potential cheap deal now or to prize him away on a free in the summer, and Derby should look to take advantage.
Also see: Has Stoke madness called time early on Bradley Johnson’s Derby County career?