This mornings Sunday papers are suggesting that Paul Merson is set to swoop for former team mate Ian Taylor. This is the second ex-Villa man he has been linked with so far this week, the other was Ozzie goalkeeper Mark Bosnich.

Taylor is out of contract at the end of the season, and Merson hopes the prospect of a longer contract will lure the former Villa man to the Bescot. There is no doubting that Taylor would boost the strength of our already strong midfield.

His arrival would put pressure on Simon Osborn and Joe Broad, both of whom currently find themselves warming the bench.

Taylor has made 25 appearances for the Rams this season, so remains in George Burleys current first team plans. The prospect of a deal hinges on Derby allowing him to leave for free, in order for him to prolong his career and secure a deal for the next 18 months.