Derby boss Paul Jewell is poised to sign Laurent Robert next week as he continues to rebuild his relegation-threatened Rams squad.

The former Newcastle and Portsmouth winger is likely to sign a short-term contract until the end of the season as Jewell plots a future for the club.

Argentinian striker Emanuel Villa was paraded prior to Sunday's 2-2 FA Cup third-round draw with Sheffield Wednesday, a game in which Danny Mills made his debut after joining on loan until the end of the season from Manchester City.

If Derby can agree a fee with Blackburn for Robbie Savage and sort out a work permit for out-of-favour Spurs defender Hossam Ghaly, Jewell will have brought in five players in quick succession.

Robert, though, is likely to be the next through the door after impressing during a trial over the last few days.

"He's done exceptionally well in training, and hopefully he will be a Derby player on Tuesday," confirmed Jewell.

"I would think he will be on a short-term contract to the end of the season, but I don't want to say too much until it's done and dusted."

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