League One transfers: Shock Theo Walcott news, Derby County battle Charlton and Portsmouth lead race

Derby County are expected to be one of the top promotion candidates next season, but what are their rivals getting up to in the transfer window and how could this impact the Rams?

Reading sign striker Harvey Knibbs

According to Football Insider, newly relegated Reading have agreed to sign former Cambridge United striker Harvey Knibbs. The 24 year-old is due a medical and if all is well should be announced by the club imminently.

The striker made 40 league appearances for Cambridge last season scoring five goals and contributing five assists. Knibbs was a player that the Rams were rumoured to have shown interest in alongside Bristol City, yet Reading look to have secured his signature.

This could prove to be a blow for Paul Warne’s side if Knibbs works out at Reading who could prove to be promotion rivals to the Rams next season.

Charlton rival Derby’s interest

So far in the transfer window, it seems every time that the Rams show interest in a player, so do League One rivals Charlton Athletic. There were reports that the Addicks had a bid accepted for heavily desired striker Alfie May earlier this month, but nothing has yet materialised.

Furthermore, Derby and Charlton make up two of three teams that have submitted a loan bid for Ipswich Town midfielder Idris El Mizouni. Charlton will need to begin making moves if they are to challenge for promotion as they witnessed 11 player departures at the start of the transfer window.

Walcott training with promotion rivals Reading

You don’t always see the biggest names in League One, but this could be one of the biggest. Former England star Theo Walcott has been at the training ground of the Royals according to Reading Chronicle Journalist, James Earnshaw.

In a tweet he said he was still unsure on ‘whether it’s just some local training or something more long-term’.

The links to Walcott are strong for new Reading boss as he managed Southampton for 17 matches this season after Nathan Jones was dismissed in February. It would be a huge signature for Reading who will struggle to sign many players due to their financial problems with the EFL.

Portsmouth leading race

According to the Belfast Telegraph, Northern Irish winger Gavin Whyte has attracted attention from a number of League One clubs.

Derby’s promotion rivals Portsmouth are said to be leading the race for the winger currently, however the Rams are monitoring his situation alongside Bristol Rovers, Oxford United and Charlton Athletic. The 27-year-old’s contract at Cardiff ran out this summer and so he is looking for his next career move.

Brentford youngster attracts League One loan interest

20 -year-old Finley Stevens has attracted interest from two of Derby’s potential promotion rivals in Blackpool and Reading. According to Darren Witcoop, both teams have enquired about taking the Brentford full back on loan.

It is reported however that the Bees want him to play in the Championship after he spent time last season at Swansea City. Stevens only made five appearances for the Swans last season, all of which were off the bench before he was recalled by Brentford in January.

The promising youngster could prove to be a useful asset in League One and the race for promotion back to the Championship.