Derby closing in on Fraulo signing

Derby County look set to make their first move of the January transfer window, with Danish midfielder Oscar Fraulo poised to join from Borussia Monchengladbach.

The 22-year-old is expected to arrive for a cross-border compensation fee in the region of €300,000 to €400,000, bringing to an end a pursuit that has been ongoing for around a year. The Rams’ interest predates the appointments of both head coach John Eustace and interim recruitment lead Leigh Bromby, underlining the club’s long-term view of the player.

Eustace confirmed the club’s stance following defeat at Leicester City, telling BBC Radio Derby that Fraulo is someone “the club have been looking at for a while” and described him as “one for the future”. He fits the profile of recent signings such as Patrick Agyemang, Max Johnston and Sondre Langas.

Fraulo’s move comes after a frustrating period in Germany, having played just 40 minutes of competitive football this season. He is expected to arrive with an individual training programme to ensure he is fully prepared for the physical demands of the Championship - a cautious approach following last January’s issues, when Langas and Lars-Jørgen Salvesen suffered serious injuries after being introduced too quickly.

With Derby lacking a midfielder capable of unlocking defences and driving the team up the pitch, questions remain over whether Fraulo can provide an immediate solution or if further reinforcements will follow. Either way, this appears to be a signing made with one eye firmly on the summer and the longer-term future at Pride Park.