Derby County have completed two signings since the January transfer window opened, and head coach John Eustace insists further additions are being worked on following Curtis Nelson’s departure.
The 32-year-old defender has left Pride Park after two-and-a-half seasons, with his final year at the club disrupted by a serious knee injury.
Nelson has reunited with former Derby boss Paul Warne at MK Dons, where the League Two side sit fifth and are pushing for promotion. Despite the exit, Eustace says the move fits into Derby’s wider plans to reshape the squad with several weeks of the window still remaining.
“I know the club are working really hard at the moment to bring players in, so we’ll just have to wait and see,” Eustace said. “If it’s late, no problem.
If it’s now, that will be great. And if we don’t get anyone in, the group will be ready to finish the season strongly.”
While admitting Nelson’s departure was disappointing, Eustace stressed it made sense for everyone involved, particularly given the competition for places in central defence.
Dion Sanderson, Craig Forsyth, Matt Clarke, Danny Batth and Sondre Langås all remain options at the back.
“It’s a shame Curtis has left,” Eustace added. “He was injured when I first arrived, then came back, and I was delighted to give him some minutes at Birmingham where I thought he did very well. But we have competition for places.
“He’s been able to extend his contract elsewhere, which gives him security for the next couple of seasons.
It’s a great opportunity for him and his family, and we wish him all the best. He’s a fantastic character and a great servant to Derby over the last two seasons.”
Eustace also highlighted that Nelson will be working again under a manager who knows him well, describing the move as one that leaves everyone satisfied.
So far this window, Derby have made Dion Sanderson’s loan deal permanent and secured the signing of Oscar Fraulo from Borussia Mönchengladbach after a lengthy pursuit.
With time still remaining before the deadline, further movement is expected as the Rams continue to strengthen their squad.
Leave a Reply