Breaking News: John Eustace must pursue deal for ‘natural finisher’ from League One this summer, Derby County need goals
As Derby County gear up for their second consecutive Championship season, the club’s priority this summer is clear: bringing in attacking talent to boost their goal tally. After a campaign where goals from open play were scarce, manager John Eustace must act swiftly to secure a proven finisher to complement the squad.
Carlton Morris is on the verge of signing for the Rams, with a medical expected to take place within the next week. However, there remains uncertainty over Jerry Yates, who spent last season on loan at Pride Park but is unlikely to return permanently. Meanwhile, Eustace is closing in on deals for Andreas Weimann and Danny Batth, both of whom are out of contract at Blackburn Rovers. Yet, the key signing Derby must prioritize is someone who impressed heavily in League One last season: Davis Keillor-Dunn.
Keillor-Dunn enjoyed a standout 2024/25 campaign with Barnsley, netting 18 goals and registering seven assists in 45 appearances. His performances helped Barnsley finish 12th in League One, and his ability as a ‘natural finisher’ was highlighted by his former manager, Darrell Clarke. For Derby, securing the 27-year-old attacking midfielder could be the missing piece in their push for a stronger Championship showing.
The Rams’ head coach, John Eustace, has a history of maximizing the potential of his players, and Keillor-Dunn would likely thrive under his guidance. Playing just behind the striker in a potential 4-2-3-1 formation, the Barnsley forward could add the clinical edge Derby desperately need. The fact that Keillor-Dunn has not yet played in the Championship makes this move even more compelling; at 27, he is entering his prime and ready for the challenge.
Statistically, Keillor-Dunn’s 2024/25 season was impressive. Over 3,800 minutes on the pitch, he fired 106 shots (44 on target), creating 48 chances and boasting a pass accuracy of nearly 80%. Despite his impressive numbers, his expected goals (xG) stood at 11.85, suggesting he outperformed the quality of chances he had – a true sign of a natural goal scorer.
Derby’s lack of goals from open play was a major factor in their failure to break into mid-table last season. Therefore, targeting a player like Keillor-Dunn makes strategic sense. His desire for Championship football, combined with Barnsley’s inconsistent form, could make this a mutually beneficial transfer.
With the window now open, the Rams must move quickly if they want to convince Keillor-Dunn to take the step up and join them at Pride Park. The potential partnership with Carlton Morris upfront could be a real threat to Championship defences, providing Derby with a much-needed boost in front of goal.
Beyond transfers, Derby also had a moment to celebrate as Craig Forsyth signed a new two-year deal with the club. The defender, now 36, will enter his 14th and 15th seasons at Pride Park. Forsyth’s loyalty and experience are invaluable as Derby prepare for another tough season in the Championship.
In conclusion, while Derby County have some deals on the horizon, the acquisition of a natural finisher like Davis Keillor-Dunn should be at the top of John Eustace’s summer agenda. It is a move that could transform the Rams’ attacking threat and help them climb the Championship table in 2025/26.
