Robert seals County deal
08 Jan 2008 - 11:43:20
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- Robert seals County deal
Derby County boss Paul Jewell has continued reshaping his struggling side in the transfer window by confirming the capture of French winger Laurent Robert on a short-term deal.
The 32-year-old former Newcastle United and Portsmouth wideman will put pen to paper on a contract that runs until the end of the season, subject to receiving international clearance.
Robert has been without a club since leaving Spanish side Levante in December, but will become the Rams' third signing of the transfer window.
Argentine striker Emanuel Villa has already joined in a £2million deal, alongside Manchester City defender Danny Mills on loan.
The Rams have also agreed a fee, believed to be in the region of £1.5million, with Blackburn Rovers to sign veteran midfielder Robbie Savage.
Speaking about the capture of Robert following a brief trial, Jewell told the club's official website: "His ability is unquestioned and I think this could be a really good bit of business for us.
"He hasn't cost us anything in terms of a transfer fee and we had the chance to have a good look at him in training before making a decision.
"Laurent's key quality is what he can do with the ball - he can unlock the door, make things happen and produce a bit of magic.
"I had a good chat with him at the weekend and I have no doubt about his desire to play again and be involved.
"I'm convinced we'll get the best out of him here, and if we do we'll have quite a player on our hands."
Meanwhile, Jewell has also revealed he hopes to sign a new goalkeeper in time for Saturday's visit of fellow strugglers Wigan Athletic.
Regular number one Stephen Bywater is still a couple of weeks away from returning from a shoulder injury, while understudy Lewis Price picked up a hamstring problem last weekend.