Sky Bet Championship side Derby County are set to go back in for Everton defender Matthew Pennington in the summer, according to reports from journalist Andy Warren.

The 24-year old, who has endured a several temporary spells away from Goodison Park, has impressed on loan at bottom side Ipswich Town this season, making 29 appearances in what has been a turbulent season for the Tractor Boys.

The defender, who has made nine senior appearances for the Toffees, attracted interest from Derby in January, however the Rams were rebuffed in their efforts to sign the centre-half, who can also operate as a full back.

However, speaking to the Liverpool Echo regarding Pennington's development during his stay at Portman Road, Warren revealed that Frank Lampard's men are "expected" to go back in for the 24-year old for a second time in the summer.

"Indeed, Derby were very keen on signing him at the end of the most recent transfer window and are expected to try again in the summer."

"As much as Matt, I'm sure, would love to stay at Everton and force his way in there, I hope he is able to find a club this summer where he can put down some roots and show what he can do."

Richard Keogh and Fikayo Tomori have been magnificent for Derby this season, but with the latter set to return to Chelsea in the summer, another young defender certainly wouldn't go amiss at Pride Park.

The Rams currently sit just outside of the Sky Bet Championship play-off places, as they prepare for a clash against rivals Nottingham Forest on Monday night...

The Verdict

This really doesn't surprise me as it is a move that makes perfect sense from a Derby County perspective.

As alluded to before, the chances of Derby signing Tomori on a permanent deal are slim, especially after Chelsea's recent transfer ban.

Richard Keogh is also getting on a bit now, so the addition of a new, young, hungry defender on a permanent basis would be a smart move from Frank Lampard.