Derby County battle with Birmingham City for Karamoko Dembele

Derby County are hoping to beat Birmingham City to the signing of Karamoko Dembele, according to reporter Alan Nixon.

Derby County are still looking to strengthen ahead of their return to the Championship and Stade Brestois winger Dembélé continues to be an attraction.

The Rams are one of many Championship and League One sides to have been linked with the youngster this summer, and reporter Alan Nixon has shared his latest update on the matter via his Patreon.

According to Nixon, Paul Warne’s side are hoping to outdo newly-relegated third-tier Birmingham City in the battle for the 21-year-old’s services.

Dembele is said to favour a move to the second tier, which should be key to Derby’s pursuit, although Birmingham currently hold out the appeal of the Brest player playing alongside his brother at St Andrew’s.

However, that attraction could disappear for the League One side if Siriki Dembele is sold.

Warne has made no secret of his desire to bolster the Rams’ final third, so he will certainly be hoping a deal can be struck for the former Blackpool loanee.

Derby County are short on options in the attacking areas and have yet to make a major addition on either flank.

The Rams added Kayden Jackson to their squad earlier in the transfer window, although he has alternated between centre and wing roles during pre-season.

Warne is understandably keen to secure a new addition capable of playing regularly in the full-back position before the transfer window closes.

Nathaniel Mendez-Laing was the standout performer for the East Midlands side last season, although he never had a consistent partner on the opposite flank.

Right-back Kane Wilson was used on the wing at times, as was Joe Ward, while Tom Barkhuizen and Corey Blackett-Taylor never managed to secure regular starting places.

Playing for Blackpool last season, Dembélé shone at both full-back and centrally, registering nine goals and 14 assists in all competitions.

His dazzling performances make it no surprise that he is in high demand this summer.

Summer business is essential

Derby County secured promotion last season but the next task for Warne’s side is to retain their championship status in May.

A squad overhaul was needed, and that is already underway, although there are still gaps that need to be filled by the Rams if they are to feel comfortable in the second tier this season.

The aforementioned Jackson has so far been joined through the Pride Park gates by Jerry Yates, Ebou Adams, Ben Osborn, David Ozoh and Kenzo Goudmijn.

Goalkeeping has been a focus position in terms of strengthening, with a deal for Jacob Widell-Zetterstrom looking closer, but the flank areas still need to be fully addressed.

If Warne could secure a deal for Dembele, it would undoubtedly give the Championship newcomers a huge boost.