Derby County has received encouraging news in their search for a key goalkeeper this summer.

With just two days until Derby County begins their Championship season with a match against Blackburn Rovers, they are still without a primary goalkeeper.

The team made the unexpected decision to release Joe Wildsmith at the end of last season, who has since joined West Brom.

Derby County has been actively looking for a new number one and recently reached a £1.4 million transfer agreement with Swedish club Djurgardens for goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom.

Although Zetterstrom has completed his medical and a deal has been reached, Derby must wait for him to sign the contract as he is currently participating in Europa Conference League qualifiers.

Djurgardens director Bosse Andersson had previously stated he would not allow Zetterstrom to leave until a replacement was found, which has now been arranged.

Djurgardens finalize transfer of Al-Fateh goalkeeper Jacob Rinne

The Swedish club Djurgardens has now confirmed that Jacob Rinne has completed his transfer from Al-Fateh, a move that clears the way for Jacob Widell Zetterstrom to join Derby County.

Al-Fateh announced the transfer on their official X account, expressing gratitude to Rinne, who made 31 appearances in the Saudi Pro League last season. The message read, “Thank you, Jacob, for your contributions to Al-Fateh. We wish you success in your next destination.”

With Rinne’s arrival at Djurgardens, the path is clearer for Derby to finalize Zetterstrom’s signing. Although Zetterstrom is currently involved in Europa Conference League qualifiers, Djurgardens now having a suitable replacement should expedite the process.

The addition of Zetterstrom would be a significant boost for Derby, who are currently relying on Josh Vickers as their only senior goalkeeper. Vickers, who spent most of the previous season as a backup to Joe Wildsmith, is seen as a reliable second option by manager Warne. However, Zetterstrom’s arrival could be a game-changer for the Rams.

Derby is expected to face a higher volume of shots in the Championship compared to last season, making Zetterstrom’s skills even more crucial. Standing 6 foot 5, Zetterstrom has demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure, having kept seven clean sheets in 17 appearances for Djurgardens this season. His proficiency in saving long-range shots has been well noted.

Fans are eagerly anticipating Zetterstrom’s arrival, as he could prove to be one of Derby’s most impactful signings of the summer.