Derby County will be looking for a much-improved displays heading towards the start of the new Championship season, whilst under the management of Wayne Rooney. 

The Rams finished 21st in the second-tier standings last term, in what was a disappointing league campaign on the whole.

Derby only avoided relegation on the final day of that season, as they drew 3-3 with Sheffield Wednesday at Pride Park, which saw the Owls relegated instead.

A number of players left the club over the summer, and the club's supporters will be eager to see their side challenge higher up the second-tier standings next term.

It could potentially be a busy month ahead, and Rooney looks to add to his squad before their season opener against Huddersfield Town on Saturday 7th August.

We take a look at the latest transfer news involving Derby County from the last week, as they prepare for the upcoming 2021/22 season.

Blow in pursuit of Matt Clarke

Derby County were reportedly keen on re-signing Matt Clarke from Brighton and Hove Albion, with the defender likely to be struggling for consistent game time with the Seagulls.

But they've been dealt a blow in their pursuit of the defender, with journalist Alan Nixon revealing that both West Brom and Sheffield United have registered their interest in signing the 24-year-old this summer.

Experienced duo targeted 

According to journalist Alan Nixon, Derby are rumoured to be interested in moves for both Phil Jagielka (pictured above) and Richard Stearman this summer.

Jagielka is a free-agent after leaving Sheffield United at the end of the 2020/21 season, whilst Stearman's short-term deal with Huddersfield Town reached a conclusion earlier this year.

It remains to be seen as to what stage of negotiations the Rams are at with either player, but defensive reinforcements are certainly needed within Wayne Rooney's squad.

Rooney makes transfer admission 

Speaking in an interview with Derby County's official website, Wayne Rooney issued an important transfer update, by revealing that they're not in a position to finalise player agreements at this moment in time, although that could change in the near future.

"I’ve spoken to a lot of players who are eager to come here and join the club. Unfortunately, at the minute, I’m not in a position to finalise any of them, but hopefully in the near future I’ll be able to.

"There’s a few new faces who are new to the group and it’s an opportunity for them players to come in and see how I work and see how the club works and show me what they can do."