Derby want to rush through deadline-busting deal for West Brom star Mikey Johnston
Mikey Johnston's future at West Brom is back under the microscope.
The Irishman nearly sealed a move to Flamengo last summer, before the plug was pulled by the Brazilian side.
He stayed at The Hawthorns and scored two goals with eight assists in the Championship last season.
However, his campaign was hampered by a stress fracture in his ankle and he missed the 11 Championship matches.
Johnston is a key player for James Morrison and he would be reluctant to lose the creative spark that he provides.
Second tier rivals Derby County are now eyeing a transfer for the 27-year-old.
What is the latest on Mikey Johnston and Derby?
The Baggies star is one potential solution for the Pride Park side as they try to add more flair to their side.
Alan Nixon reported, via his Patreon on Sunday, that the Rams want to sign Johnston or Bristol City's Anis Mehmeti.
He claimed that there will be a rush if either player becomes available, and that is not certain that moves will happen.
It may have to be a deadline-busting swoop, if the Baggies prove to be tough in their negotiating standpoint.
Why Derby may be confident of striking Johnston deal
John Eustace's side may have an increased confidence that they can agree a deal for the winger.
That is because they have already signed Alex Mowatt from the Baggies this summer.
That deal was understood to be higher than the £600,000 fee that was initially reported, for the man whose contract with Albion expired next summer.
They will have to pay more than that for Johnston, as he is under contract until 2028, so Morrison's side will surely demand a higher amount than the one they received for the midfielder.
The Rams may hope to use the relationship that already exists between the clubs to come to a solution that benefits everyone, and get their target through the door.
It would be a risk for the Black Country side to let their best player depart, but if the money is right, then it could happen.
The final stages of the window will likely be nervous for supporters in B71.