Paul Warne engages in three transfer discussions as Derby County plans new signings.

Paul Warne shared that he met with three players on Monday as he begins his summer transfer plans as Derby County’s head coach.

The Rams will be able to start making transfers in nine days when the market opens, and the club aims to strengthen key positions, including a new goalkeeper, midfielder, and two strikers.

Derby County has been preparing for this transfer window since January, anticipating their return to the Championship, which they secured after a successful promotion from League One. Recruitment meetings have been ongoing since the season ended, and Warne has been in talks with players also targeted by other clubs.

Speaking on TalkSport, Warne noted: “Fans expect signings on day one, but it doesn’t work that way. I’ve met players that other clubs want too. Early signings require either the biggest budget or personality.

“You negotiate with players, offer competitive deals, but then everyone conveniently goes on holiday. For example, one player has gone to Portugal for two weeks, so there’s a delay. I’m constantly in touch with players and agents. It could be next week or three weeks before we sign anyone. Yesterday, I met with the chief executive and head of recruitment. It’s an ongoing process, and I’m always in contact with players.”