Derby County Eyes Blackburn Rovers Move if Double Rams Transfer Falters

With four matches left in the 2025/26 Championship season, Derby County remain alive for a play-off spot. They sit five points behind Hull City in sixth and will treat every fixture as decisive.

Current form and context

John Eustace has overseen a marked improvement this season. After a poor start of only one win in ten league games, the Rams climbed the table instead of battling relegation.

Last season Eustace secured Derby’s second-tier status with a goalless draw against Stoke on the final day. That escape has influenced summer planning at Pride Park.

Loans expiring and transfer priorities

Several loan deals end this summer. David Ozoh, Jaydon Banel, Bobby Clark and Ben Brereton Diaz will return to their parent clubs unless permanent moves are completed.

• Bobby Clark is on loan from RB Salzburg. Salzburg signed him for £10 million in August 2024.
• Ben Brereton Diaz is on loan from Southampton. His permanent future is unclear.

Manager Eustace has publicly stated he would like to retain Clark. He also said final decisions depend on finances and negotiations between the clubs. The club’s recruitment will hinge on those outcomes.

Contingency target: Todd Cantwell

If the double transfer of Rams loanees falters, Derby County could seek alternatives. One clear option is Blackburn Rovers captain Todd Cantwell.

Cantwell, 28, is versatile and can play in multiple midfield roles. He has five goals and three assists in 26 Championship appearances this season.

Contract situation and injury record

Cantwell has one year remaining on his Blackburn contract and has not renewed his deal. Injuries affected parts of his campaign.

When fit, he has a significant influence on games. That profile would suit Derby’s tactical needs in either a back three or back four.

Manager familiarity

Eustace knows Cantwell from their time together at Ewood Park. The pair featured in 26 matches across competitions while Eustace was at Blackburn.

• Under Eustace, Cantwell scored twice and provided three assists in those meetings.
• Eustace previously worked with players such as Lewis Travis, Owen Beck, Danny Batth, Andreas Weimann, Dion Sanderson and Sammie Szmodics.

That existing relationship would make a move logical if Derby fails to secure Clark and Brereton Diaz permanently.

Filmogaz.com will monitor any developments as the transfer window approaches. Fans can expect more clarity once the season concludes and clubs make decisions.