That’s before you even take into account the likes of Korey Smith and Conor Hourihane – who did a job last season in their promotion success when needed – have been shoved out of the door too at Pride Park, on top of the fact Ebou Adams – who quickly became a fan’s favourite on loan – has also returned back to his parent employers in Cardiff City.

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Therefore, it’s no great shock to see Warne and Co scrambling about to sign a new midfield star, with this EFL veteran being eyed up reportedly.

Derby’s search for a midfielder

According to a report from The Sun late last week, the newly promoted outfit are keen on adding the seasoned head of Ben Osborn to their ranks this summer, with the midfielder now a free-agent steal.

Controversially formerly of Nottingham Forest fame, where he made 230 appearances, the 29-year-old was actually born in Derby funnily enough, and even had a brief stint as a child in the Rams youth set-up, before defecting over to their arch-rivals.

Fan being kicked out of Cardiff's Canton Stand

Last on the books with the Blades, having actually featured 24 times in the Premier League last campaign as Chris Wilder’s men crashed and burned in the top flight, The Sun have also stated that Watford are another interested party, with Derby waiting to see if he picks his hometown club over the Hornets.

Getting this signing done and dusted could mean Derby don’t feel as pressured into re-signing former loan gem Adams, who has been rumoured for a return to Pride Park, knowing that Osborn is a steely and determined midfielder who will give the Rams a cool head when making the step-up, away from going back in for the former Forest Green man.
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What Osborn would offer Derby

Described as being an “invaluable” player for his side last season by Wilder, after putting in a top-drawer effort in a 2-2 draw versus Chelsea with six ground duels successfully won, Derby will be able to still have the grit Adams displayed in abundance with Osborn joining.