Derby County have earmarked Burnley manager Sean Dyche as the man to replace Steve McClaren this summer, according to reports.
The Rams' Championship promotion bid has suffered consistent setbacks in recent weeks, with Friday's 2-2 draw against 10-man Watford extending their winless streak to seven.
Consequently, speculation is rife that Derby will part company with McClaren, said to be a Newcastle United target, during the off-season and the club's hierarchy are keen to recruit Dyche, according to the Daily Mail.
Despite being the pre-season favourites for relegation, the Clarets continue to battle against the odds as Dyche's side sit just one point adrift of safety with a game in hand - Sunday's visit of Tottenham Hotspur.
Derby sit sixth in the Championship, with only goal difference separating them from Ipswich Town and Wolverhampton Wanderers in seventh and eighth place respectively.
Shane Callaghan
