Derby County’s Double Dilemma — And the “Exciting” January Signing Already in the Bag
Derby County find themselves navigating a tricky winter period. On one hand there’s the well-documented struggle to land a reliable goal-scorer. On the other, there has been one genuine piece of transfer business already concluded in January that could prove an astute move.
The Trouble in Front of Goal
Derby have long been looking to plug the gap at the top end of the pitch. Despite the squad’s efforts, goals have been scarce and the margin for error thin. Reports show that the Rams were pushing hard in the January window for attacking reinforcements — specifically a striker and possibly a right-wing option. (upchelsea)
For example:
- It was revealed Derby were willing to pay a “ridiculous fee” for a 16-goal gem in League Two in January, highlighting just how desperate they were for attacking firepower. (Derby County News)
- On top of that, the club admitted that while the quality of arrivals in the window had improved, the numbers fell short of ideals — the striker target remained a pain point. (upchelsea)
The upshot? The forward line lacked consistency, and rival clubs were circling targets that Derby had their eye on. The club’s ambitions were clear — but the execution less so.
The Rival Threat
Complicating matters further, Derby face competition from other clubs for key targets. One clear example: the club were reported to be battling against rivals such as Sunderland (and even Leeds United) to land a promising young forward in the January window. (Sunderland Echo)
When you’re operating under budget constraints in the Championship, falling behind on such duels can mean being left with the scraps — a risk Derby seem acutely aware of.
The “Exciting” January Signing: A Bright Spot
But it hasn’t all been gloom. Amid the transfer frustration, Derby secured an interesting acquisition: Lars‑Jørgen Salvesen.
- On 15 January 2025 the Norwegian striker joined from Viking FK on a 2½-year deal. (dcfc.co.uk)
- His record in Norway was solid — 17 goals in all competitions for Viking in the preceding campaign. (dcfc.co.uk)
- The deal was reportedly not over-priced: despite early rumoured figures of up to £2.25 million, Derby reportedly paid around £800,000. (The72 – Football League News)
In his first few weeks, Salvesen spoke positively, saying: “I have a good connection with my team-mates already… they are looking for me and playing me in my best spots.” (dcfc.co.uk)
That makes this move arguably the defining piece of business so far — perhaps the “exciting” one referred to by fans and observers.
The Two-fold Issue Summed Up
- Primary issue – forward scoring: Derby’s initial scouting and negotiations around a potent finisher have been hampered by competition and financial restraints. The club have openly acknowledged this.
- Secondary issue – rivals doing deals: While Derby were targeting certain players, other clubs secured them or got the jump, leaving the Rams playing catch-up in some cases.
Why the Salvesen Signing Matters
If Salvesen delivers, his arrival could ease the pressure on the squad’s previously underperforming front-line. Considering his profile and value, it ticks several boxes: goal threat, experience in a different top league, decent price tag. From the club’s own commentary: “Salvesen was on the radar since the summer.” (upchelsea)
However, achieving sustained impact in the Championship is always a big jump. Even Salvesen accepts the challenge: “You live off the goals for a striker… but the ones you miss are hard to forget sometimes.” (dcfc.co.uk)
Looking Ahead
For Derby, the next few months are critical. They need:
- Salvesen to settle quickly and offer consistent returns.
- Some degree of squad reinforcement (especially if other targets slipped) to support the attack and other areas.
- Competitors not to pull further ahead in recruitment that could complicate survival/re‐push ambitions.
If Salvesen becomes the catalyst, then the “double issue” of scoring-problem and transfer-blow might ease. If not, it could leave Derby still scrambling when the window sunsets.
In short: Derby’s focus this winter has rightly been on goals and making the most of the transfer window — but with rivals circling and only one major done deal so far (Salvesen), the pressure remains high. Fans will hope he turns out to be the “exciting” signing that shifts momentum.
