Derby County are likely to seek loan signings this month as Phillip Cocu looks to strengthen his squad in order to push for the play-offs.

A 2-2 draw at a resurgent Middlesbrough side on Saturday extended the Rams unbeaten run to four games and has left them eight points away from the top six.

Therefore, they would need a very strong end to the campaign to finish in the play-offs and many feel new faces will be needed to do that.

And, whilst the East Midlands outfit are expected to be busy, Derbyshire Live reporter Steve Nicholson suggested that they won't be splashing the cash, instead concentrating on the loan market in order to improve.

"I’d be surprised if Derby forked out ‘significant’ transfer fees in this window. They are more likely to look at loans."

He also reiterated that Leicester City's Filip Benkovic is a top target, with Cocu keen on bringing in another centre-back as Richard Keogh's season-ending injury has left Derby very short in that particular area.

The big Derby County quiz – Can you get 18 out of 18?

The verdict

This is an update that may concern some fans as they will feel the club should show more ambition and backing Cocu with big money would be doing just that.

However, Derby know more than most in the Championship that money does not guarantee success and they also know after last season how important the loan market can be.

Ultimately, it's about getting the right players in and if they do bring in two or three quality options they have an outside chance of making the play-offs.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.