Derby have had three bids rejected for Jack Marriott by Peterborough United, but the Championship side remain in hot pursuit for the striker.

The Rams will need to offload players before bringing in the 33-goal striker, according to journalist Alan Nixon.

The Posh’s top goalscorer is at the centre of intense interest from manager Frank Lampard who is preparing his side ahead of the new season.

Derby would have the available funds for the permanent capture of the 23-year-old should they offload a player to make space.

The most likely to leave Pride Park to facilitate the move is Matej Vydra.

The Czech Republic international has been linked with a move from the club with Leeds and West Bromwich Albion reportedly interested in his services.

The stance on Derby needing to sell to buy would make sense to fall into the confines of Financial Fair Play.

The Verdict

Derby needing to sell to buy makes perfect sense. Lampard’s business this summer has been from the loan market.

With Financial Fair Play, clubs can't just spend, spend, spend and accumulate multiple players on big wages.

Clubs need to follow the rules of FFP to avoid incurring significant financial penalties.

Should Derby free up space, that money will be used on Marriott. It is a transfer that Lampard should endeavour to get over the line.

FFP is just as important, if not more so than adding to a squad. Lampard will adhere to the rules, and that should pay dividends when the transfer goes ahead.