Clough's main target is Leicester striker Martyn Waghorn, but if that fails he is likely to raid ICT for Rooney or Aberdeen for Chris Maguire.
There are also strong rumours linking Derby to Kilmarnock captain Craig Bryson, further increasing the likelihood of a player making the move from the SPL to Pride Park.
Former Stoke City player Rooney, 23, has been in sparkling form during the most recent season, scoring 22 goals.
Rooney's contract expired when the SPL season finished last week and although Caley Jags gaffer Terry Butcher is desperate to keep him it may be time for him to move back for a second shot at English football.
Rooney said: "I came up here to progress my career and I have done that, now I have to sit down and decide what my next move is.
"I will speak to my agent and see what my options are."