Report: Derby County and Retained List Deadline as 11 Decisions Need to Be Finalised Ahead of Crucial Summer Rebuild
With the summer transfer window fast approaching, Derby County find themselves at a pivotal juncture as the deadline for submitting their retained list draws near. The club faces a series of crucial decisions, with 11 first-team players awaiting clarity on their futures. The coming days will significantly shape how Paul Warne’s side prepares for the 2024/25 season, especially after securing promotion back to the Championship.
The retained list, due imminently per EFL regulations, requires all clubs to confirm which players will be offered new contracts, who will be released, and which options — if any — will be exercised. For Derby, this process carries added weight, with a number of experienced figures and promising talents nearing the end of their current deals.
Among the most high-profile names under scrutiny are veterans such as Conor Hourihane and Curtis Davies, both of whom played instrumental roles in the club’s recent success. While their leadership and experience have been invaluable on and off the pitch, Warne and his coaching staff must now assess whether they fit into the club’s long-term vision in the Championship.
At the same time, decisions must also be made on younger squad members and fringe players who featured sporadically throughout the campaign. Striking the right balance between continuity and fresh investment will be essential as Derby aim to re-establish themselves at a higher level of competition.
Speaking earlier this week, Warne hinted that tough calls would be necessary. “This is the part of the job no one really enjoys, but it’s important,” he said. “Some of the lads who’ve helped us massively might not be part of the next chapter, and that’s just the reality of building a squad for the Championship.”
Supporters are eagerly awaiting news, with many expressing their hopes that core players who contributed to the team’s strong defensive record and attacking resurgence will be retained. Meanwhile, others recognize the need to evolve and bring in new faces capable of meeting the demands of a tougher league.
The decisions made will also have financial implications. Derby must navigate their recruitment strategy carefully, staying within budgetary limits while ensuring the squad has the depth and quality required to compete. Whether that means relying more heavily on the club’s youth academy or dipping into the loan market remains to be seen.
As the retained list deadline looms, the pressure is on behind the scenes at Pride Park. Over the next few days, conversations between players, agents, and club executives will determine who stays and who departs — setting the tone for what promises to be an important summer rebuild.
