Bailey (left) and Brayford have been regulars this season

Derby County have completed the signing of Crewe Alexandra duo John Brayford and James Bailey.

The Rams have agreed an undisclosed fee - thought to be for an initial combined amount of £1m - and both have signed three-year contracts at Pride Park.

Brayford, 22, can play at centre-half or right-back and played under Derby boss Nigel Clough at Burton Albion.

Bailey, 21, came through the ranks at Gresty Road and has been touted as a replacement for Robbie Savage.

Clough said: "We are delighted to bring John and James in; both are young players who have a very bright future in the game.

606: DEBATE £1-1.6m is a lot of money for two unproven players for a Championship club andy7481

"We've made no secret of the fact we have been interested in John for some time, so to finally land him is very satisfying.

"I know all about John having worked with him at Burton Albion and I have no doubt he will be able to make the step up to the Championship.

"James is a determined midfielder who has been impressive every time we have watched him and we're delighted he has also joined us."

Brayford's former club Burton will also benefit from the defender's move as they are entitled to 20% of any transfer fee thanks to a sell-on clause in the deal that took him to Crewe for £80,000 two years ago.

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