Derby County Keen To Land 31-Year-Old

Derby County have been linked with a potential move for Coventry City striker Matt Godden, as confirmed by journalist Alan Nixon.

The 31-year-old is a target for the League One side, ahead of the 2023/24 season but there are other factors in play which would have a significant effect on any potential deal this summer for the Rams.

Who is Matt Godden?

The striker began his career with Scunthorpe United before having several Non-League loan spells. He then spent time with both Ebbsfleet United and Stevenage before joining Peterborough in 2018. However, one year later he signed for Coventry City for £1 million.

With the Skyblues, Godden scored 15 goals as he helped the club to win the League One title. He also scored the club’s first goal back in the Championship. Last season, the forward scored eight goals and assisted a further four as the Skyblues missed out on promotion in the play-off final.

Promotion is the aim

Derby County missed out on the League One play-off places last season, following their final day defeat against Sheffield Wednesday, whilst Peterborough beat Barnsley. Therefore, Paul Warne’s side will be back to target the top six once again next season.

The Rams may have lost the likes of Curtis Davies and top-scorer David McGoldrick, but they have secured the services of Rotherham’s Conor Washington and Luton’s Sonny Bradley.

What’s been said?

According to Alan Nixon, Derby County are plotting a move for Matt Godden but only if he becomes available for transfer. This is because he has linked Coventry with free agent Billy Sharp, suggesting that if the Skyblues sign Sharp, Godden would be available to leave.

Writer’s View

As a Coventry fan, I have to admit that Matt Godden has been a loyal servant to the club, but his 12-goal contribution last season suggests he still has what it takes in the second tier.

I think it is unlikely that Godden would be made available to leave the club this summer but with Derby losing McGoldrick, it’s a transfer that would certainly make a lot of sense. Therefore, this is one to keep an eye on.