After their impressive performance in seeing off Stoke in a pre-season friendly, the drums are beating loudly that some significant additions to the squad may be made sooner than later.

The names involved will not be new to Rams fans with Michael Tonge and James Vaughan being the two main candidates.

It seems that as the new campaign draws closer, both players are not likely to be first options at their respective clubs and so rather than sit and gather cobwebs once again long term loans are the best option for all involved.

Michael Tonge has made no secret in the media recently that he would be happy to return to Pride Park. Various sources have quoted the player about his desire to be a part of the Rams 10/11 season:

"I would definitely look at the chance to go back to Derby. They will be looking to push on this season."

Very few Rams fans would not welcome back the hard working and creative midfielder who with little match fitness under his belt showed more than enough to warrant another stay at Pride Park.

Lets just hope that the powers that be can arrange a deal for an experienced and talented player who would add a lot to a Rams squad that could do with a little more of just that.

It also seems that Nigel Clough is hot on the trail of another striker to replace the injured Davies and perhaps a departing Rob Hulse? James Vaughan is one player Clough seems keen to go back for after an ill-fated loan last season:

"We are still trying to get a striker in and we are still talking to people about that. There are a few who interest us and James is one of them."

Vaughan is considered an un-cut talent at Everton and it would be a good deal for both parties as long as the boy could shake off his injury problems. The last thing the Rams need is another injury prone charger, though that is the one advantage in the loan system. If you’re reading this Nigel, keep the receipt so you can return if necessary.

The other goal scoring name being tossed about is Wigan hit man Jason Scotland who has not been able to find form in the Premier League. The Rams are being rumoured to be one of many interested parties including Bristol and Burnley.

Scotland has an impressive record for both St Johnstone scoring 33 from 66 and 45 from 90 appearances respectively between 2005 & 2009.

But after only finding the net once for Wigan since 2009 in 32 appearances, a drop back in class may reinvigorate his goal scoring prowess. The recent deal between Derby and Wigan for Cywka will do no harm if the club are genuinely chasing him with bridges already built.

In other news Paul Green has been named in an initial 28 player squad for the Republic of Irelands friendly against Argentina on August 11. Hopefully this is just another sign that Green is heading back to his best after an injury interrupted season in 09/10.

Things are hotting up as the real business gets ever closer. Whatever is fact or fiction, one thing is for sure… there will be more to come before the mighty Rams step onto the pitch against the damned United.

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Photo: Action Images

pkay_brum added 16:30 - Jul 28 Scotland has been a flop since his move to the top flight but has pedigree at our level - if he's not just looking for action and the money, he could provide some thrust, speed and ruthlessness. James Vaughan is a bit over-rated IMHO - a burst of speed, no end product, then some injuries....we've got one of those already; he's called Stephen Pearson.
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