Breaking today: Paul Warne set to reunite with second Derby County favourite at MK Dons, there are more signings to come
Paul Warne looks set to bring another familiar face from his Derby County days to MK Dons, as the club gears up for a busy transfer period with more additions on the horizon. The current MK Dons manager, who previously guided Derby through a challenging chapter in their rebuild, is reportedly close to securing a reunion with a second Rams favourite this summer.
After already completing a deal to sign one former Derby player earlier in the window, Warne is now making moves to bring in another who thrived under his leadership at Pride Park. While the identity of the incoming player has not yet been officially confirmed, sources close to the negotiations suggest that the deal is in its final stages and could be announced within days.
Warne’s recruitment approach has been clear since taking over at MK Dons — blend youth and ambition with experienced, battle-tested professionals who understand his playing philosophy. It’s a method that served him well in his managerial spells at Rotherham and Derby, and now he’s aiming to replicate that blueprint as he builds a competitive squad for the upcoming campaign.
**“He’s looking for players who can hit the ground running,”** a club insider said. **“Bringing in those he knows and trusts is part of that process. These are players who not only perform but also set the tone in training and the dressing room.”**
The move has already sparked excitement among both MK Dons supporters and Derby fans keeping tabs on their former players. The unnamed target was a key contributor at Derby, admired for his consistency, work ethic, and connection with the fans. His return to working with Warne would be seen as a sign of strong mutual respect — and unfinished business.
The former Rams boss is believed to be building a side capable of pushing for promotion, with his eye firmly on strengthening key areas ahead of preseason. Having already added fresh faces and now chasing another player with proven League One and Championship experience, MK Dons are clearly not done yet.
**“There are still a few more signings we’re working on,”** Warne said in a recent interview. **“We want to get the right characters in, those who fit the culture and can help us move forward.”**
Supporters have responded positively to the transfer rumours, particularly those involving ex-Derby favourites, with many seeing the link between the past and present as a promising sign of ambition.
While the focus remains on building a squad that can challenge, there’s no denying that the familiarity Warne is fostering could be the glue that binds the project together. The addition of another Derby County alumnus — especially one well-versed in Warne’s methods — may prove a pivotal step in MK Dons’ push up the league table.
Paul Warne’s strategy of bringing in familiar faces from his Derby County days to MK Dons seems like a smart move. It’s clear he values trust and understanding in his squad, which can be crucial for team cohesion. The excitement among fans is palpable, especially with the potential reunion of a key player from Derby. I wonder if this approach will indeed translate into success on the pitch for MK Dons. Do you think focusing on players he’s worked with before might limit the team’s potential to bring in fresh talent? It’s interesting to see how Warne’s philosophy will shape the upcoming season. What’s your take on this transfer strategy?