2 bargain free transfers Derby County could consider ft Marc Albrighton | OneFootball

Two free agents Derby County should consider signing to aid their Championship campaign

Derby County are back in the Championship after coming second in League One last season.

The Rams will be aiming to establish themselves back in the second tier of English football after two years in the third tier.

Paul Warne guided the club back to this level, but will be under pressure to ensure they avoid any kind of relegation scrap this year.

Derby have already made a number of signings over the summer in preparation for the campaign ahead, with the likes of Kayden Jackson, Ben Osborn and Jerry Yates adding much-needed Championship experience.

Warne's side will face Middlesbrough, Watford and Bristol City before the September international break arrives, and even though the transfer window is only open until 30 August, the day before they face the Robins, free agents can even be signed after the deadline has passed.

Here we look at two free agents that Derby should consider signing in order to bolster their squad for their Championship return.

Marc Albrighton

Marc Albrighton is available after departing Leicester City at the end of his contract last season, and the winger is an incredibly experienced option that could come into Warne’s side.

While the Rams aren’t short of players nearer the end of their career, someone like Albrighton would still add so much due to what he’s achieved in his time in football.

The 34-year-old only made 12 appearances in the Championship last season as the Foxes won the title, but he is still capable of competing at this level for a side of Derby’s ambition.

He might not be at his very best anymore, but he would still bring a level of quality that Warne’s side could use over the next year or two.

Albrighton would bring competition and cover on the left flank, which could prove quite useful.

Setting aside his ability on the pitch, his leadership qualities off the pitch would also be an exceptional addition.

This is a player that has competed at the very highest level in the Champions League and Europa League, also playing a key role in Leicester’s 2016 title win in the Premier League.

Having someone who knows the standards from the very top of the game in the dressing room could go a long way in helping to establish the club back in the Championship.

Darren Randolph

Derby have been searching for a goalkeeper since Joe Wildsmith was released at the end of last season.

Jacob Widell Zetterström is set to join from Swedish side Djurgardens in a deal worth £1.4 million, according to Expressen, but that is a deal that has not been confirmed yet.

If they want to add further competition for the 26-year-old though when he does arrive, then Darren Randolph could also be a strong option to come into the fold.

The Republic of Ireland international has played in the Premier League, but is currently available as a free agent after his departure from Bournemouth.

The 37-year-old hasn’t been a first-choice since departing Middlesbrough in 2020, so won’t be demanding a starting spot in Warne’s side, if they can convince him to join.

Having his experience alongside Zetterström could prove a smart bit of business as the Swede adapts to life in English football.