Derby manager Paul Jewell is hoping to make Plymouth right-back Paul Connolly his second new signing as he reshapes his squad for the Coca-Cola Championship.

The 24-year-old, who would be available for no fee at the end of his contract this summer, has already held talks with Jewell and undergone a medical at Pride Park.

The Rams boss told the club's official website: "Paul is available on a Bosman in the summer so we spoke to (Plymouth boss) Paul Sturrock to ask permission to talk to the player.

"We have done that and hopefully we can conclude a deal pretty quickly. He is keen to come and fits the bill as he is 6ft 1in, athletic and hungry.

"Paul is a fighter, and that is what I want to bring, as well as quality, which he has got."