Wayne Rooney has delivered a reassuring transfer update as he claims that 'a lot of players are eager to join' Derby County this summer.

The Rams are in a tricky spot at the moment with the club restricted by a transfer embargo due to the ongoing off-field issues around the non-submission of financial accounts.

However with the new season just a month away it means that Derby still have work to do.

Rooney's side only managed to avoid relegation on the final weekend of the season last term and so it seems that improvements will need to make to the squad if they're to kick on next term, but while additions are unable to be made right now, the head coach is remaining optimistic on the transfer front.

Speaking to Derby County's official website, Rooney said: “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.”

With the likes of Richard Stearman and Phil Jagielka currently training with the Rams, Rooney believes that the chance to cast his eye over potential new arrivals could be a blessing in disguise.

“There’s a few new faces who are new to the group,” he added.

“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.”

The verdict

It's going to be a long summer for Derby County fans.

Restrictions in the transfer market are the last thing that the Rams need after such a disappointing campaign on the pitch last term.

New signings are an absolute must but until the club are in a position to be able to make signings it seems that things are only going to get tougher for Wayne Rooney's side.

The head coach may be sounding positive but I'd be very surprised if he wasn't worried by this situation.