Exclusive: Sky Sports pundit reacts to Derby County update involving Sheffield Wednesday's Josh Windass | OneFootball

Lee Hendrie has told FLW his verdict on Derby County's interest in Josh Windass

Lee Hendrie believes that Josh Windass would be a real coup for Derby County if they could sign the Sheffield Wednesday forward this summer.

It was reported by The Star earlier this week that the Rams are among the clubs eyeing a move for the 31-year-old amid uncertainty over his future at Hillsborough.

However, they face competition from the likes of Norwich City and Coventry City after the forward enjoyed a strong campaign in the Championship.

Windass contributed 13 goals and five assists in Danny Rohl’s side, as they finished 12th in the table.

Josh Windass to Derby verdict

Hendrie has claimed that Windass would fit the bill of the kind of player that Derby are looking to add to their squad.

He praised the forward’s eagerness and his creativity, while also highlighting his impressive goal tally in a Sheffield Wednesday squad that hasn’t always been so impressive.

“He’s a player that has shown that he’s capable of hitting the heights in the Championship and has done so in a team that sometimes hasn’t really had full potential in the squad,” Hendrie exclusively told Football League World.

“Derby have really looked to try bolster, and have obviously been linked with players that I think would suit that football club — he’s one for definite.

“Again, he’s got a goal tally, he’s got creativity and he can play anywhere pretty much in that frontline.

“You do feel that you’d still be looking at players that are keen and eager and got that bit and he’s definitely got that.”

Windass joined Sheffield Wednesday in the 2020 January market, and has been a central part of the first team squad in the years since, helping them gain promotion from League One in 2023.

Windass signing has potential for Derby

Derby need added firepower in attack next season if they’re to continue their improvement under John Eustace.

The Rams will want someone that can score goals consistently, as they target a top half of the table finish.

Windass has a proven track record at this level, and his performances last season were quite impressive, so it’s no surprise that he has a number of suitors.

It remains to be seen how a deal to sign him will work at this stage given the behind the scenes issues at Sheffield Wednesday, but if he is available at a cut rate price then this could prove a real coup for Derby in the transfer market.