Latest Derby County Transfer News and Targets Update
Derby County have been quietly active behind the scenes, fine-tuning their squad ahead of the 2025–26 season in the Championship. After a rollercoaster campaign, Rams boss John Eustace and his recruitment team are determined to build on last season’s foundation, making shrewd additions while keeping an eye on key targets to strengthen the spine of the team.
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### ✅ Recent Moves: Clear Incomings and Departures
**Short-term signing of veteran defender Erik Pieters**
In late March, the Rams brought in Dutch veteran Erik Pieters on a short-term deal until the end of the 2024/25 season. The former Premier League star, boasting over 550 club appearances across PSV, Stoke, Burnley, West Brom, and Luton, provided depth at both left-back and centre-back ([talksport.com][1], [thesun.co.uk][2]). He joined following a trial at Middlesbrough and quickly became a trusted mentor in the dressing room. Although Pieters wrapped up his loan stint and departed in May, his professional influence was considered invaluable .
**Young talents loaned out and released**
Derby have bid farewell to several young players: Ben Radcliffe, James Collins, Eiran Cashin, and Ryan Bartley have secured moves to lower-league clubs in search of regular minutes ([en.wikipedia.org][3]). Meanwhile, U21 talents such as Tony Weston have been released as Derby prioritise squad streamlining ([en.wikipedia.org][4]).
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### 🎯 On the Radar: Targets and Transfer Messages
**Lewis Travis interest from Blackburn signals midfield focus**
Eustace’s scouting network has flagged Blackburn Rovers’ captain Lewis Travis as a prime target. Travis, a commanding midfielder with leadership qualities, has drawn admiration from Derby. However, Blackburn have made it clear he is not leaving on the cheap and would demand a significant transfer fee ([youtube.com][5]). Derby must now decide if they’re prepared to invest to bring the 27-year-old to Pride Park.
**Potential links to Wrexham and competition for Craig Dawson**
Reports suggest Wrexham and Derby are both monitoring free agent Craig Dawson. The 35‑year‑old centre‑back adds Premier League pedigree and would offer defensive reinforcement ([thesun.co.uk][2]). Dawson may be an attractive short‑term option, especially if funding a move for Travis proves difficult.
**Continued interest in Cody Drameh**
Derby have also renewed their interest in full-back Cody Drameh, previously linked to manager John Eustace. Drameh offers pace, versatility, and wing-back experience — ideal traits for a system built on flexibility ([youtube.com][5], [transferfeed.com][6]).
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### 🔍 Summary & Outlook
* **Defensive depth** remains a clear priority: with Pieters gone, Derby need experienced additions. Targets like Travis and Dawson would bolster central areas.
* **Marginal gains in full-back positions** through interest in Drameh suggest Eustace is aiming for structure and width.
* **Budget constraints** are evident as Derby balance ambition with realism. Blackburn’s stance on Travis could test the club’s finances.
Eustace’s recruitment vision appears strategic: blend experienced professionals with promising youth for a balanced, competitive squad capable of navigating the Championship’s challenges. As the summer window unfolds, Rams fans can expect updates on these key transfer targets—and hopefully, some smart signings to boost the squad’s depth and experience.
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Derby faces a critical period: securing value signings while building a squad ready for a new Championship season. Keep watching—the Eustace era is shaping up around careful reinforcement and tactical ambition.
