Derby County hope to make Plymouth Argyle right-back Paul Connolly their next summer signing.

The 24-year-old is available on a free transfer having voiced his intention to leave Home Park at the expiry of his contract.

He has already held talks over a move to Pride Park and undergone a medical with a view to joining the Rams.

And boss Paul Jewell said Connolly "fits the bill" as he looks to shape his squad for next season's Coca-Cola Championship campaign.

"Paul is available on a Bosman in the summer so we spoke to (Plymouth boss) Paul Sturrock to ask permission to talk to the player," Jewell confirmed.

"We have done that and hopefully we can conclude a deal pretty quickly.

"He is keen to come and fits the bill as he is six feet one, athletic and hungry.

"Paul is a fighter, and that is what I want to bring, as well as quality which he has got."

Liverpool-born Connolly made his Argyle debut in May 2001 as a 66th-minute substitute in a 0-0 League 2 draw at home to Rochdale.

He has made a total of 177 appearances and scored just the one goal in Plymouth colours.

Paul Connolly. Picture by EMPICS Sport

Connolly has played against the Rams six times for the Pilgrims and been on the losing side on four occasions, including a February 2006 red card at Pride Park.

Derby have already added Australian midfielder Ruben Zadkovich to their ranks for next season.

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