Derby County have reportedly made a bid to sign a player described as ‘special’ and once compared to Lionel Messi. As they prepare for the 2024/25 Championship season, Derby has already secured four new signings: Ben Osborn, Kayden Jackson, Jerry Yates, and Kenzo Goudmijn, with a potential deal for Ebou Adams nearing completion.
Manager Paul Warne acknowledges the need for further reinforcements, aiming to bring in at least seven more players to bolster the squad for the challenges ahead. While their main focus is on strengthening the goalkeeper position, Derby also seeks to add creativity and flair to their forward line.
Karamoko Dembele, known for his exceptional dribbling abilities since his early days at Celtic’s under-20 team, gained prominence as one of the most promising young talents globally. After leaving Celtic in 2022, he joined Ligue 1 side Brest, where he continued his career.
The 21-year-old winger made 15 substitute appearances in the French top division during the 2022/23 season and impressed while on loan at Blackpool in League One last season.
Dembele showcased his talent with nine goals and 14 assists across all competitions for Blackpool, catching the eye of several clubs. Reports indicated that Derby showed interest in him recently, confirming that he was not in their plans.
Journalist Darren Witcoop has now disclosed that Derby, Sheffield Wednesday, and Portsmouth have all made offers for the young winger, while Bolton Wanderers have also expressed their interest.
Known for his speed and agility, Dembele has been compared to Lionel Messi by his former coach David Feeney, who worked with him at Park Villa football development in Glasgow. Feeney highlighted Dembele’s ability to maneuver past defenders and make crucial decisions in attack.
Despite some challenges in fulfilling his early promise, Dembele’s successful stint at Blackpool suggests he is poised to excel in the Championship.
Signing Dembele would be a significant move for Derby, potentially securing a player with immense future value and the ability to provide quality from the right flank, thereby making a strong statement among their Championship competitors.