Derby County ‘interested’ in signing Sheffield Wednesday defender this summer

It appears that Derby County needs to add a few players quickly before the summer transfer window closes.

Supporters of Derby County were cautiously hopeful about their chances of surviving the Championship going into the 2024–2025 season.

However, it’s evident from the team’s 4-2 loss to Blackburn Rovers on opening day that Paul Warne lacks quality players in his ranks.

Even with the addition of eight new players—among them the formidable Kenzo Goudmijn—the Rams still lack star talent and championship experience.

Derby’s shortcomings were once again on display on Tuesday night as they had to overcome a deficit to defeat Chesterfield 2-1 in the Carabao Cup.

On August 30, the summer transfer window closes. Fans want to see money spent, but the Rams may decide to use the loan and possibly even the free agent market before then.

Now, a new name with a ton of Football League experience has been connected to a potential summer relocation to Pride Park.

Tuesday’s impressive performance by Craig Forsyth for Derby County against Chesterfield could cause Warne some selection headaches ahead of the Middlesbrough match this coming weekend.

Warne’s other left-back option is Callum Elder. The Rams, however, are reportedly interested in Sheffield Wednesday star Marvin Johnson.

The 33-year-old was an outstanding performer for the Owls in their most recent campaign and has 138 Championship games to his credit.

After making a comeback into the game under Danny Rohl, Johnson finished with four goals and four assists in 29 league games.

Johnson, a left-back, is more of an attacking-minded defensive player who can rush forward and open up attacks.

Johnson, who is 33 years old, would not initially appear like such a desirable addition.

However, he didn’t appear to be slowing down while playing for Sheffield Wednesday in the previous campaign. He was a fantastic creative outlet, moving up and down the flanks.

His defensive prowess was called into doubt. Johnson’s addition, however, will offer Warne more versatility down the left, enabling him to play as a back-four or a back-five and have a left-sided defender for every set up.

Johnson still has a ton of expertise and a creative touch, which will be important this season for the Rams because they will probably be playing for the championship.

It might turn into a bidding battle because Oxford United is also interested, and Derby won’t want to spend a lot of money on a player whose contract expires in 2025.

However, if the Rams can negotiate a good contract, it might end up being a wise addition.