Derby announced its retained list on Saturday, marking the departure of six players: Conor Hourihane, Korey Smith, Martyn Waghorn, Scott Loach, Joe Wildsmith, and Dwight Gayle.
The decision to allow Wildsmith leave aroused the most questions, especially after he kept a league-high 20 clean sheets and won the League One Golden Glove.
The 28-year-old was in great form near the conclusion of the season, so his departure surprised many, but it underlines Paul Warne’s willingness to make bold decisions as Derby enters a crucial transfer window.
Another brutal decision he could make is to let a player leave Pride Park who only joined last year and is widely considered surplus to requirements.
Derby only captured Tyrese Fornah on a permanent deal from rivals Nottingham Forest last year but the midfielder’s future is already up in the air.
The 24-year-old made just nine starts in League One last term, appearing for just 37 minutes on the pitch since the turn of the year.
Because of Ebou Adams’ arrival in January and injury issues, Fornah was limited to opportunities in the Rams’ starting lineup, and his spot on the roster was frequently jeopardised.
Fornah was signed from Forest as a backup to Hourihane and Max Bird, so his spot on the team was never guaranteed.
So, when they go to the Championship, the “fantastic” ace is unlikely to be afforded opportunity to shine in the second tier.
Simply put, he isn’t talented enough to hold his own in the midfield, and with his contract expiring in 2025, Derby should cash in this summer rather than lose him on a free transfer.
Warne stated immediately after earning promotion that he has to strengthen every position in his squad; nonetheless, it is clear that upgrading his midfield is the most important.
With Hourihane and Smith leaving after their contracts expired, and midfield duo Bird and Adams returning to their parent clubs, Derby’s manager is left with only academy players Darren Robinson and Liam Thompson as possibilities in the engine room with Fornah.
The Rams are very keen in getting Adams back to the club, but Cardiff are asking a £500,000 sum before considering selling him.
Derby have also been associated with Herbie Kane, and after his release from Barnsley, they may move on their interest.
The 25-year-old has nine goals and five assists in 41 league appearances, making him a suitable substitute for Bird.
Nonetheless, Warne has his work cut out for him this summer, but if he can get certain things done early, the stress of preparation for the Championship will be reduced.
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