Albrechtsen set for Rams

Jewell has been busy trying to overhaul the relegated Rams and he is expecting to tie up a deal for Albrechtsen sooner rather than later.

Failure to agree new terms led to the Dane rejecting a new deal at the Hawthorns and Jewell is delighted at the prospect of bringing him to Pride Park.

The move seems unusual as the 28-year-old Danish defender, who joined West Brom in June 2004, was a regular feature as they sealed a return to the top flight, while Derby were relegated back to the Championship with a record points low.

"The era of Bosman means the incentives offered by clubs to out-of-contract players are often decisive in whether a player stays or leaves," Baggies manager Tony Mowbray said.

"I'd like to thank Martin for his contribution last season and wish him all the best in his new challenge.

"We will continue to push forward in our bid to find new faces to strengthen the squad for the season ahead."

Next on Jewell's agenda is to widen his search for new recruits as he seeks to build a squad capable of coping with the rigours of Championship football as Derby seek a speedy reeturn to the top-flight.

He told Sky Sports News: "We hope to complete the signing of Martin Albrechtsen today from West Brom on a Bosman.

"I would guess there would be three or four more coming through the door as well so it's an ongoing thing.

"I know we need two or three key areas strengthened before the start of the season so that is what we are going to do."

Meanwhile, Swansea continue to frustrate the Rams in their pursuit of midfielder Ferrie Bodde after turning down a second bid.

The Dutchman has expressed his desire to join the Rams and Jewell is not ready to end his pursuit of the player.

"We've bid for him and been rejected a couple of times," Jewell added.

"He seems keen to come to us and we admire him but whether we can do a deal remains to be seen."