Midfielder Coutts and defender Freeman have both put pen to paper on a two and a half year deals - Freeman, who has joined on a free transfer is no stranger to Bramall Lane having spent the latter end of the season on loan from the Rams last season.
Coutts will be unable to make any appearances for his new club in the cup-competitions after being cup-tied for the Rams in both the League and FA Cup. However should competition rules allow then Freeman can be selected for both the FA Cup tomorrow at Preston and at hom eto Tottenham in the League Cup semi-final (2nd leg).
The pair told sufc.co.uk; "I'm delighted to work with Nigel (Clough) again," said Coutts. "It was a tough decision to leave Derby but not a tough decision where to go - Nigel showed an interest and I can't wait to get started." Freeman added: "I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Club last year on the tremendous FA Cup journey and I'm delighted to be back on a permanent basis - the aim is to force myself into the Gaffer's plans and boost the promotion charge."
Meanwhile it is understood that a fee has been agreed for the sale of John Brayford from Cardiff City with the deal set to be worth over a 7 figure sum and the deal should be completed over the weekend.