Derby County have reportedly made preparations to sign Darren Bent and Tom Ince to permanent deals this summer.
Despite falling short of a playoff place under Steve McClaren, who is set to be replaced by Paul Clement, both players were impressive in the latter stages of the season.
The Derby Evening Telegraph claims that securing a deal to sign Bent is a priority, and the Rams are in pole position to complete the signing on a free transfer when he leaves Aston Villa.
Ince joined on loan from Hull City in the latter stages of the campaign, and the report suggests that the club's hierarchy are keen to retain his services.
However, it remains unclear whether the midfielder will be wanted back at the KC Stadium following Hull's relegation from the Premier League.
Bent also spent time on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion, while Ince struggled during a spell with Nottingham Forest.
Callum Mulvihill
