Derby County have received a significant boost in their pursuit of Crystal Palace midfielder David Ozoh after reports revealed that Championship rivals Middlesbrough
Derby County Handed Major David Ozoh Boost as Middlesbrough Truth Emerges
Derby County have received a significant boost in their pursuit of Crystal Palace midfielder David Ozoh after reports revealed that Championship rivals Middlesbrough are not interested in making a move for the talented youngster this summer.
Rams manager John Eustace has made it clear that reuniting with several of last season’s standout loan stars is a major priority as he prepares for the upcoming Championship campaign. Following an impressive season at Pride Park, Derby are eager to build on the progress made under Eustace and maintain the momentum that saw them narrowly miss out on a play-off place.
The 2025/26 campaign marked a dramatic improvement for Derby compared to the previous year, when they battled relegation and only secured survival by the finest of margins. Under Eustace’s leadership, the Rams developed into one of the division’s most organised and competitive sides.
A key feature of Derby’s success has been Eustace’s willingness to work with familiar faces. Players such as Lewis Travis, Dion Sanderson, Danny Batth, Sammie Szmodics and Ozoh have all previously played under the Derby boss and flourished within his system.
The Rams are already making progress in the transfer market, with a £6 million move for Bobby Clark reportedly edging closer. The midfielder impressed during his loan spell at Derby last season, and the club are keen to secure his services on a permanent basis.
Now, attention is turning toward Ozoh. The powerful midfielder enjoyed a productive loan spell at Pride Park despite injury setbacks and remains highly regarded by Eustace. With Middlesbrough reportedly focusing their attention elsewhere and showing no interest in pursuing the Crystal Palace youngster, Derby’s chances of securing another loan agreement—or potentially a permanent deal—have received a welcome lift.
Ozoh’s future at Crystal Palace remains uncertain as the Premier League side assess their squad options ahead of the new season. However, Derby’s strong relationship with both the player and Eustace’s proven ability to get the best out of him could prove decisive.
For Rams supporters, the latest development will be viewed as encouraging news. Bringing back a player of Ozoh’s quality would strengthen Derby’s midfield options considerably and further reinforce Eustace’s strategy of building around trusted performers who already understand his demands.
With transfer business beginning to gather pace, Derby appear increasingly confident that several familiar faces could be returning to Pride Park as they target a serious push for promotion next season.
