Derby have agreed a deal with non-league Ilkeston Town for midfielder Ben Pringle to move to Pride Park this summer.
The former West Brom trainee, 20, will join the Championship club on a one-year contract in July and form part of County's 'development squad'.
"Obviously this is a signing with an eye very much on the future. He is a player we have seen and think has potential to play in the Football League as he progresses," Rams boss Nigel Clough told Derby's official website.
"Ben also has the attitude and character we are looking to bring to this football club, with a hunger to better himself and play at the highest level possible.
"It is up to the player now to prove himself and make the progression we believe he can make."
Clough has created such a squad as a bridge between the academy and the first team for younger players and it has been entered in the reserve league for next season.
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