Exclusive: Derby County in advanced talks to sign Blackpool’s Sonny Carey
Derby County are on the verge of completing a notable summer signing, as the club enters advanced negotiations to bring in Blackpool’s talented midfielder Sonny Carey. Sources close to both clubs have confirmed that talks are progressing well, with all parties optimistic that a deal will be finalised in the coming days.
The 23-year-old Carey has emerged as a top target for Derby manager Paul Warne, who is looking to strengthen his midfield options ahead of the Rams’ upcoming Championship campaign. Known for his technical ability, vision, and versatility, Carey has impressed in League One with Blackpool, attracting interest from several second-tier clubs. However, Derby appear to be leading the race for his signature.
Carey made 40 appearances for Blackpool during the 2024–25 season, contributing five goals and several key assists. His performances in central midfield — often as a box-to-box presence or in a more advanced attacking role — earned him plaudits from both fans and pundits alike. With Derby aiming to establish themselves as promotion contenders next season, Carey’s energy and creativity could prove to be vital assets.
Negotiations reportedly centre around a transfer fee in the region of £500,000, with performance-based add-ons potentially taking the overall value of the deal higher. Personal terms are believed to be close to being agreed upon, and should everything proceed without complications, Carey could undergo a medical at Pride Park as early as next week.
Speaking on the potential move, a source within Derby’s recruitment team said: “Sonny Carey is exactly the kind of player we’ve been looking for — young, hungry, and with the quality to make an impact straight away. He’s got a great engine, and his footballing intelligence fits perfectly with what the manager is building here.”
Carey joined Blackpool from King’s Lynn Town in 2021 and has since developed into one of the more consistent performers in League One. While Blackpool are reluctant to lose a player of his calibre, the club is understood to be open to the move, particularly given the financial structure being proposed by Derby.
For the Rams, the potential signing continues what has been a proactive start to the summer window. Warne has already expressed his desire to add depth to his midfield and attacking units, and Carey’s arrival would reflect the club’s strategy of targeting young, proven talents who can develop further at Championship level.
Blackpool, meanwhile, are preparing for life without Carey and are reportedly lining up replacements should the deal go through. The Seasiders are aiming to rebuild after narrowly missing out on a playoff spot last season and understand that player sales may be necessary to fund reinvestment in key areas of the squad.
