Derby County told to seal "really good signing" from Charlton Athletic | OneFootball

Derby fan says Thierry Small would be "a really good signing" as Rams target Charlton star amid injury concerns and positional needs.

This article is part of Football League World's 'Terrace Talk' series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Derby County are among several Championship clubs keeping tabs on Charlton Athletic's Thierry Small ahead of the summer window, as per a recent FLW exclusive.

The 20-year-old has made 62 appearances for the Addicks since joining from Southampton, chipping in with three goals and six assists.

Small has also impressed with his ability to play on either flank. Despite naturally being a left-sider, most of his 2024/25 campaign has seen him deployed down the right.

Derby County: Thierry Small would be a smart signing

FLW's Derby County fan pundit Shaun Woodward was asked whether he thinks Small would be a smart addition for the Rams, and when speaking to FLW, he mentioned that he believes it would be a shrewd signing, particularly given the club's current options in the wide defensive areas.

"I think Thierry Small would be a good bit of business for Derby," said Shaun. He has played down both sides, at both full-back and wing-back. And it is definitely an area that we need to strengthen because of the likes of Nyambe and Elder, their injury record isn't great."

"Hopefully, he could fit into Derby's system really well. So if we could entice him over to Derby, I think he would be a really good signing for us, because it is an area that we really need to strengthen."

Thierry Small could give Derby a long-term option in a key role

Small's breakout run of form under Nathan Jones has seen him grow into one of Charlton's key assets.

His blend of versatility, athleticism and growing end product has drawn attention from several Championship sides, including Preston, Oxford United, Millwall and Blackburn.

Derby have lacked consistency and fitness in their wide defensive roles this season, and someone of Small's profile could offer fantastic long-term value at just 20 years of age.

Charlton's promotion has given them hope, but the battle isn't over

Charlton's promotion back to the Championship could be crucial in their bid to retain Small, whose contract is set to expire next month. The club will be hopeful that second-tier football strengthens their case to keep the highly-rated youngster in South London.

However, they still face serious competition. Should Small opt to move on, Charlton would be entitled to a compensation fee due to his age. However, this would likely pale in comparison to what the club could demand if he were still under contract.