Derby boss John Eustace wants to reunite with “real leader” at Pride Park
Derby County are on the lookout for additions after escaping relegation last term and John Eustace could now be set to swoop for a star he has previously worked with, according to a recent report.
Derby County make strong start to the summer window
There is plenty of excitement at Pride Park ahead of the new season, and a common theme has emerged within the Rams’ summer recruitment that may paint an intriguing picture.
Andreas Weimann and Danny Batth have both arrived from Blackburn. Richard O’Donnell, alongside Carlton Morris, come in from Blackpool and Luton Town, respectively.
John Eustace took over at Derby from Rovers in a surprise turn of events earlier this year, and new signing Batth has pointed out why the Rams boss is the man he wanted to work for, above all.
He explained: “We have got a good relationship. We speak about football and get on well generally. I like the way the manager works with his team and obviously I know what I am getting into coming here.
“I am sure he will be really pushing forward with the team this season, and to be a part of that is a great privilege.”
Determined to keep building on what has been an encouraging start to the window, Derby are in talks to sign free agent midfielder John Swift and he has already met Eustace amid rumours that he could be set for Pride Park.
Three other clubs in the EFL will provide competition for his signature, but there can be no doubt that the Rams are on the right track when profiling where to add fresh blood. Now, Eustace could be set to repeat his trick of raiding Blackburn for new additions by reuniting with a star he rates highly from his time in Lancashire.
Derby plotting move for Callum Brittain
According to Football Insider, Derby are plotting a move for Blackburn full-back Callum Brittain amid an impasse in talks over a new deal for the 27-year-old at Ewood Park.
Eustace is said to be a huge fan of the defender and previously labelled him “one of the best full-backs in the league” alongside talking up his qualities as a ‘real leader’ on and off the pitch.
Enjoying a productive time of things last term, Brittain registered two goals and five assists in 35 appearances across all competitions, predominantly featuring on the right-hand side of their backline.
However, he is also capable of featuring further up the flank when needed. He may be set for a new challenge under a familiar face if reports are to materialise into something more concrete.
Derby avoided relegation by a solitary point in 2024/25 and seem determined to avoid a similar fate this time around. Their pursuit of Brittain could be a statement of intent on that front.
