Jewell close to raid

Derby boss Paul Jewell is on the verge of landing Watford striker Nathan Ellington as a replacement for Robert Earnshaw.

Rams chairman of football Adam Pearson has confirmed that talks are underway to land Ellington, who previously played under Jewell at Wigan, as a replacement for Earnshaw who looks to be on his way to Nottingham Forest.

"Discussions are underway to bring Nathan Ellington to Derby County and hopefully we can bring them to a conclusion," said Pearson.

Watford paid a club record £3.25m for Ellington in August last year which could have gone above the £4m mark depending on appearances, but after a disappointing campaign it is thought he could be prised away for less than half that fee.