With Derby County's diminishing play-off hopes, they need to start preparing for their summer transfer business to improve the squad for another promotion ambition next year. 

One player who may be amongst negotiations at Pride Park at the end of the season is forward Tom Ince who has been one of the stand-out performers in a Rams shirt this year.

The 25-year-old has more or less become a prominent member of the first-team under Steve McClaren with his prolific form from out wide.

Ince has played in 32 Championship matches for Derby in the 2016/17 campaign, and his place in the starting is justified with his eleven goals and six assists.

He may be on his way out of the club this summer though as his consistent performances have seen him being linked with the likes of title contenders Newcastle United - a move to Tyneside may be on the cards if the Magpies gain promotion as Ince will no doubt harbour ambitions of a return to Premier League football.

With Tom Ince's future uncertain at Derby County, here's two possible replacements for the winger...

Junior Hoilett

The Cardiff City wide man is contracted to the Bluebirds until the end of the season following his arrival at the club in early October, but with a new offer likely to appear from the South Wales outfit, Derby County will desperately need to get their act together.

Junior Hoilett has been a vital part of Neil Warnock's rise up the table to avoid a relegation scrap with his two goals and three assists in 23 appearances, so Cardiff will definitely put a new deal on the table for the Canadian international.

The former Queens Park Rangers man may keep his options open and Derby will definitely be a potential suitor if they need to replace Tom Ince, but will  have to tempt him before he commits his future at his current club or elsewhere.

Aiden McGeady

The ex-Republic of Ireland international has found his level after impressive displays and goals have seen him become the first name on the team sheet during his loan spell at Preston North End from Everton.

The 30-year-old made his own 'Goal of the Month' competition for the month of February after several outstanding occasions when he hit the net, and his seven assists alongside that proves just how important he is to the Lilywhites.

Aiden McGeady may be getting on a bit but the Championship is where he belongs and Everton probably want to get him off their wage bill so a small fee will be required by Derby County, especially as his deal at Goodison Park expires next summer.

 

Derby supporters - do you think Tom Ince may leave in the summer? Would you welcome either of these replacements? Is there anyone else who could take Ince's place? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!