Exclusive: Derby keen to sign loan star permanently, he could leave parent club this summer
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(Credit: Imago) Mon 11 May 2026 13:10, UK Championship side Derby County are keen to sign loan star Bobby Clark on a permanent deal this summer, sources have told Football Insider.The Rams are currently part of a queue of teams that are interested in taking the 21-year-old this summer, as an exit from Red Bull Salzburg could be on the cards. Clark’s own aspirations within the game are set to come into play when it comes to deciding his future, but Derby have hope that a permanent swoop may not be out of reach for them.John Eustace’s side ultimately missed out on the Championship play-offs on the final day of the campaign, and they are keen to go one better in 2026-27.Derby alerted to cut-price Bobby Clark optionClark has been a key figure in Derby’s success this season, as he immediately came in and started 33 games for Eustace’s men in the league.
His situation is set to attract plenty of potential suitors this summer, with Rangers already linked with a deal to take him north of the border, but Derby are not likely to give up without a fight. Rams join race for EFL hitman Lorent TolajFootball Insider revealed at the end of April that Derby have joined the race for Lorent Tolaj this summer, with the Plymouth striker one of the EFL’s hottest properties at the moment.
The 24-year-old’s form has prompted interest from a whole host of Championship clubs in recent weeks, with Derby firmly in the mix for his signature, along with the likes of Millwall, Sheffield United and Preston.Tolaj is also on the radar of both Celtic and Rangers, who have had success when taking stars from the EFL in the past. Derby are looking for a replacement for Patrick Agyemang as he continues his recovery from a serious Achilles injury, and Tolaj could be the man for them this summer. 🏆 Championship Insider Access Get the full story from across the EFL with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from across the EFL Championship.