4 Derby County Players Who Could Leave In January 2026

Derby County may experience departures during this transfer window.

Derby County

As Derby County continue their push towards the Championship play-offs, the club is exploring options to strengthen the squad for the remainder of the season.

While progress has been steady under John Eustace, a few players could be on their way out as the Rams look to fine-tune their roster.

Players Who Could Leave Derby County

Eboue Adams

Adams has been linked with Championship sides Sheffield United and Luton Town, but his commitment to Derby could influence any potential move.

Valuing respect and loyalty over career progression, Adams has remained dedicated to the club, yet a strong opportunity elsewhere could tempt him.

His departure would remove a source of midfield experience and composure, crucial in tight games.

Curtis Nelson

Nelson has found it challenging to reclaim his place following a year out with an ACL injury. With Plymouth Argyle expressing interest and a contract extension clause in place, his future remains uncertain.

Once a key figure in Derby’s defence, Nelson has been effectively replaced in the squad and may seek a fresh start elsewhere to reignite his career.

Kayden Jackson

Lincoln City are monitoring Jackson with a possibility of the attacker joining until the end of his contract this summer.

Whether Lincoln aim to sign him permanently or he finds another destination is still unknown.

Since Derby’s promotion to the Championship, Jackson has struggled for game time and goals, leaving him on the fringes. A move could provide the regular minutes he needs to get back on track.

Ryan Nyambe

No clubs have officially expressed interest in Nyambe, but there is uncertainty over his role in Eustace’s current formation.

The defender has struggled to fit into the set-up, and while Derby may seek to reintegrate him, a move elsewhere could become a practical option for all parties.

Other Notable Squad Movements

Owen Beck

Owen Beck’s season-long loan at Derby was cut short after an injury, and the young full-back has returned to his parent club, Liverpool.

Beck’s return leaves Derby without one of their promising attacking options from the wings, though it also frees up opportunities for other squad members to step up.

Jake Rooney

Jake Rooney has returned to Derby after his loan spell at Barnsley, where he made seven appearances across all competitions after joining the Reds on 1 September 2025.

The defender adds depth to Eustace’s squad, providing options for the backline as Derby continue to push for a play-off position.

Darren Robinson

Under-21s midfielder Darren Robinson has completed a permanent move to League One side Doncaster Rovers.

Robinson’s departure reflects Derby’s ongoing strategy of streamlining the squad and allowing younger players to seek first-team opportunities elsewhere.

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