Former Blackpool and Swindon Town star Jerry Yates looks set to move to Championship side Derby County after The Rams fended off interest from several clubs for the Swansea City striker. 

Derby have reportedly won the race for the talented forward, after Blackburn Rovers, Queens Park Rangers and Stoke City had shown interest in signing the player, according to Football Insider.

The 27-year-old is currently on the books of Swansea City, having made the move to the Liberty Stadium in 2023 from Blackpool. The player has also been on the books of Rotherham United, Harrogate Railway Athletic, Harrogate Town, Carlisle United, and Swindon Town before making the move to Blackpool in 2020.

He made 139 appearances for the Seasiders, scoring 46 goals and contributing 18 assists and was part of the side that beat Lincoln City in the play-off final at Wembley in 2021 providing the assist for the winning goal from Kenny Dougall.

He has made 43 Championship appearances this season for Swansea City, scoring eight goals as his side finished mid-table.

A good signing for Derby County?

Derby are looking to solidify their place in the second tier after achieving promotion. After a turbulent period in the last few years which at one point had fans seriously concerned whether they would be able to field a side or not, the club now need to ensure they avoid an immediate return to League One.

Yates is an experienced head at 27, with over 150 Championship appearances he has the knowhow to be able to lead from the front for Paul Warne’s side. The Derby manager, of course has a prior relationship with the player having worked with him at Rotherham United prior to his move to Blackpool and will know his qualities well and how they can benefit the promoted side.