Sheffield Wednesday demand 'excessive fee' for Derby County transfer target
Derby County have been chasing Smith since the start of the season
Derby County have made a number of bids for Sheffield Wednesday striker Michael Smith for a loan deal until the end of the season.
However, the Owls have rejected the offer and are demanding an excessive fee to get a deal done.
According to BBC Derby Sport, the Rams offered to pay a significant wage contribution, but it seems the two clubs are at somewhat of a stalemate.
Paul Warne had previously managed Smith at Rotherham United and has been keen on signing the Sheffield Wednesday man for the Rams.
This season, the 32 year-old has played in 14 games in the Championship and has scored three goals.
He has a proven scoring record in League One with the Owls. Last season, Smith helped Wednesday to promotion by scoring 18 goals and recording 14 assists.
Derby have been searching for another striking option since David McGoldrick's departure in the summer.
James Collins has been the first choice for the Rams this season, scoring 12 goals, but Paul Warne doesn't have many options after him due to injuries to Conor Washington and Martyn Waghorn.
Smith would provide a new option going forward which could be crucial for Derby's promotion hopes. They will need to up their current offer if they are to land the striker however.