Derby County has kicked off its summer recruitment with a trio of signings aimed at bolstering the squad ahead of the 2025/26 Sky Bet Championship season. On July 1, 2025, the Rams announced the return of forward Andreas Weimann, alongside the acquisitions of centre-back Danny Batth and veteran goalkeeper Richard O'Donnell, all on one-year deals. This activity follows the earlier signing of striker Carlton Morris from Luton Town, marking a busy transfer window for Derby as they look to improve on last season's survival battle.
Andreas Weimann, 33, is no stranger to Pride Park, having spent three seasons with Derby between 2015 and 2018. During that spell, the Austrian international made 88 appearances and scored nine goals. After a varied career that has seen him feature for clubs including Aston Villa, Watford, Wolves, Bristol City, West Bromwich Albion, and Blackburn Rovers, Weimann is set to bring experience and attacking options back to the Rams' front line. His return reunites him with Derby boss John Eustace, under whom he played previously at Blackburn.
Meanwhile, Danny Batth's signing is a significant coup for Derby. The 34-year-old defender arrives on a one-year contract after declining a new deal at Blackburn Rovers, where he made 41 appearances last season. Batth's career is decorated with notable achievements, including winning the Championship title with Wolverhampton Wanderers in the 2018/19 season, securing promotion to the Premier League. His journey since leaving Wolves in January 2019 has seen him play for Stoke City, Sunderland, Norwich City, and Blackburn, showcasing his consistency and adaptability across the English leagues.
Batth's move to Derby reunites him with John Eustace for a second consecutive summer, following their time together at Blackburn. The defender spoke candidly about his decision: "I just think it was a great opportunity for me to come and help the team, help the club. I've played against Derby over the years and know what an occasion it is when you play at the stadium and the support the club gets. I just wanted to be part of that. It's a real project. The foundations were set last year and the club is looking to move forward. I want to be a big part of that." He also praised his relationship with Eustace, saying, "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'm sure he'll be really pushing forward with the team this season and to be a part of that is a great privilege." Batth is eager to make an impact and is looking forward to a full pre-season, something he missed last year: "The focus now is on just getting to full fitness in pre-season and going through that. I didn’t have that last season, I had to do pre-season away from a club. Coming back in early now, plenty of time to build, get ready for the season and build through the friendlies. Personally, it is about getting really fit now and just be ready to compete every day for a space. If I get an opportunity, when that comes, to do really well."
Batth's arrival adds serious competition to Derby's centre-back ranks, joining Curtis Nelson, Sondre Langås, and Matt Clarke. The Rams have been keen to strengthen their defensive options following a challenging 2024/25 campaign, where they narrowly avoided relegation with a final day 0-0 draw against Stoke City. Batth's experience and leadership are expected to be vital as Derby aims to climb the Championship table.
Richard O'Donnell, 35, completes Derby's summer signings as an experienced goalkeeper brought in on a free transfer from Blackpool. With over 400 senior appearances for 14 different clubs, O'Donnell will provide valuable depth and mentorship behind current first-choice keepers Widell Zetterstrom and Josh Vickers. His presence is anticipated to bolster the Rams' goalkeeping department and offer reliable backup throughout the season.
Derby's recruitment strategy this summer reflects a blend of experience and familiarity, with both Weimann and Batth having previously worked under Eustace. The head coach, who took over at Derby in February 2025, has been instrumental in shaping the squad's direction. His ability to attract players he trusts and knows well could prove crucial in stabilizing the club and pushing for improved results.
Looking ahead, Derby faces a tough start to the season, with Batth set to face his former club Stoke City on August 9, 2025, in the opening weekend fixture. This match will test the Rams' new defensive setup and provide an early indicator of how the summer signings are settling in. Fans will be eager to see if the reinforcements can help Derby build on last year's survival and challenge for a higher position in the Championship.
The addition of Carlton Morris earlier in the transfer window also adds firepower to the attacking line, complementing Weimann's return. Morris, 29, joined from Luton Town in late June and brings a proven goal-scoring record in the division. Together, these signings suggest Derby is serious about transforming its fortunes and competing more robustly in the 2025/26 campaign.
Overall, Derby County's summer activity signals a commitment to growth and ambition. The club is assembling a squad with a mix of youth and seasoned professionals, all under the guidance of John Eustace, who is determined to build on the foundations laid last season. With the Championship always fiercely competitive, the Rams will need every bit of experience and quality they can muster to ensure a successful campaign.
As the transfer window continues, attention will turn to the anticipated signing of Andreas Weimann, who is expected to finalize his return from Blackburn soon. His arrival will complete a promising quartet of summer recruits and add further depth to Derby's attacking options.
With these reinforcements in place, Derby County fans have reason to be optimistic as the new season approaches. The blend of familiar faces, proven performers, and a clear project under John Eustace's leadership sets the stage for an intriguing and potentially rewarding 2025/26 Championship season.
