[Mighty T.A.L.]

Rams won't give up on Jones

David Kelly insists Derby County's bid to sign Southampton striker Kenwyne Jones is not 'dead'.

The Rams have had a £5million offer for the forward rejected, with Southampton unhappy with how the situation has been handled.

But Derby are not relenting in their pursuit of the Trinidad & Tobago international, with assistant manager Kelly confirming a deal could still happen.

"A bid has gone in and we are waiting to hear," said Kelly.

"As far as I'm aware the deal is not dead, and the two clubs are still talking.

"We are hoping for something because he is an exciting player, a very young talent who will give us a different option up front.

"He has an extreme amount of pace, and if we are fortunate to get him then he will be a valuable added member to the squad."

Unsettling

Meanwhile, Saints manager George Burley is adamant Jones will only leave St Mary's if the club receive a satisfactory offer.

Burley told a Radio Solent fans' forum: "If the offer is not right for the club then we won't accept it. It has not been right so far and it would have to be right for us and for the player.

"Speculation from Premiership clubs is unsettling because the type of money they pay is unreal. But how do you stop it?

"We don't want to sell Kenwyne, but even Manchester United have to look at it if they get a big offer for a player.

"We want to keep Kenwyne unless we get an offer which will take the club forward."

Source: Skysports