Cardiff close to Brayford capture

Cardiff City are closing in on the signing of Derby County defender John Brayford, the Championship club have confirmed.

Cardiff, who won the Championship last season, have struggled to strengthen their squad since being promoted to the Premier League.

Danish striker Andreas Cornelius arrived for a club-record fee of £8.5million from FC Copenhagen last month, but manager Malky Mackay has failed to increase his options since.

Brayford’s arrival appears imminent, though, after Derby announced that they had accepted a bid – reported to be £2million – for the 25-year-old full-back on Thursday.

“After holding discussions with the player, who is entering the final year of his contract, the offer has been accepted after he expressed a strong desire to make the move and test himself at the highest level of English football,” a Derby statement read.

“The fee is to remain undisclosed and the player has been given permission to discuss personal terms and undergo a medical.

“It is expected Brayford will complete the formalities of the transfer on Friday.

“Derby are committed to continuing to strengthen the squad in advance of the 2013-14 season and expect additions to be made in due course.”

Brayford, who can also play at centre-back, made 43 appearances for Derby in all competitions last term.