The race for promotion to the Premier League is heating up, but this hasn't stopped Derby County boss Frank Lampard from casting an eye on the summer.
The Rams currently sit in a very promising position with just seven games left to play this season - the East Midlands club occupy seventh spot in the Sky Bet Championship table ahead of a trip to Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday night.
It has been a hugely impressive debut season in management for Lampard, and regardless of what league they find themselves in next season, the future looks to be bright under the former Chelsea star.
[ad_pod ]
Reports have emerged in Sunday's print edition of The Sun claiming that the Rams are interested in signing Brighton and Hove Albion's Christian Walton in the summer - the 23-year-old has been a regular for Wigan Athletic on loan this season, impressing in 29 games for the club.
Scott Carson and Kelle Roos have been battling it out for a regular place in between the sticks this season, but with the latter's contract up in the summer, reinforcements in that area are surely needed.
Should a deal for Walton fail to materialise, here we take a look at three alternatives should consider for Derby...
Adrian
It would be some coup if Derby were to sign Adrian, but after recent developments, it could well be possible.
The Spaniard has made over 150 appearances for West Ham United since joining from Real Betis in 2013, but looks set to leave the club in the summer upon the expiry of his contract, according to reports.
He is a vastly experienced player who may be older than Walton, but would offer real leadership between the sticks.
Fraser Forster
Forster is another player who is facing an uncertain future at a Premier League club, and could well be open to a move to Derby in the summer.
The 31-year-old is yet to make a first-team appearances for Southampton this season, and has been limited to just a few appearances in the Saints' under-23 side.
The former England international will be desperate for a fresh start in the summer, and at 6-foot-7, he would be a solid addition for Derby.
Karl Darlow
The former Nottingham Forest man would be an excellent signing for Derby.
He was a regular for Newcastle United in their Championship title-winning season back in 2016/17, but has since fallen out of favour at St. James' Park behind Martin Dubravka.
Having made just one appearance for the Magpies this term, he will surely be looking for regular game-time next season, and Derby would give him just that.