According to the Mirror’s live transfer blog (29/01, 07:08), the race to sign Chris Martin is gathering pace, with three Sky Bet Championship clubs hopeful of signing the Derby County forward in the coming days.  

Derby are looking to move Martin on before the close of the transfer window this week, following the arrival of Cameron Jerome at the Pride Park Stadium, which looks to have spelled the end of Martin’s chances this season.

Sunderland had looked like frontrunners to sign Martin, with reports suggesting a deal had been agreed, however, Chris Coleman’s side have been unable to finalise a deal.

Reading have now entered the race to sign the 29-year-old, whilst Fulham, who had Martin on-loan last season, have also expressed an interest with taking the striker back to Craven Cottage in some capacity.

Martin bagged 10 goals in 36 Championship appearances for Fulham last season, but has found his opportunities stretched under Gary Rowett, following his return to Derby.

So far this season, Martin has struggled for starts at the Pride Park Stadium and has scored just a single Championship goal.

Martin was left out of the squad in Derby’s last Championship fixture – a goalless draw with Bristol City.

The Verdict  

Martin’s future clearly lies away from Derby, and the coming days will certainly be interesting to see where the striker ends up.

The interest in Martin tells you that the striker still has a lot to offer in the Championship, and any club who gets their hands on the striker in the coming days will benefit.

Derby fans… Let us know your thoughts!