Derby County ‘agree deal to sign John Eustace favourite from Blackburn Rovers’
Derby County have agreed a deal to sign midfielder Lewis Travis from Championship rivals Blackburn Rovers.
The 27-year-old played under Rams boss John Eustace at Blackburn and featured in the Lancashire club’s 1-0 defeat to West Brom on 9 August.
Valerien Ismael’s men have suffered three consecutive defeats across all competitions and travel to Hull City on Saturday, 23 August.
Amid the news that Travis is set to join Eustace’s side, Derby have also eyed a return move for Harrison Armstrong, who played for the Pride Park club on loan from Everton last term.
Lewis Travis set to join Derby in £1.2m move
Former FIFA referee Keith Hackett exclusively told Football Insider that he thought Birmingham were fortunate to win a penalty in their win over Blackburn on Saturday, 16 August.
Meanwhile, the Ewood Park faithful are now set to witness their long-serving academy graduate join up with former Rovers boss Eustace at Derby.
TalkSPORT’s chief football correspondent, Alex Crook, revealed via X on Friday, 22 August: “I understand Derby have agreed a deal worth in excess of £1.2million for Blackburn captain Lewis Travis.
“Travis played under Derby boss John Eustace at Ewood Park.”
Lewis Travis set to shine for John Eustace
Football Insider verdict
After Derby were beaten 5-3 by Coventry last time out, the Rams are still searching for their first win of the Championship season, which could arrive when they host Bristol City on 22 August.
Meanwhile, after successfully avoiding relegation last term in their first campaign back in the second tier, Eustace’s men should have their sights on landing a top-half finish this season.
Travis was one of Blackburn’s top performers last campaign, notching two goals and one assist in 38 Championship appearances.
| Lewis Travis stats | Championship 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 38 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 1 |
The fact that the central midfielder already has a strong relationship with Eustace is a positive for the Rams, as they look to continue progressing in the second tier.
Meanwhile, Travis’ talent was proven when he helped Ipswich Town clinch promotion to the Premier League, making nine appearances for the Tractor Boys on loan from Blackburn during the second half of the 2023/24 Championship season.
His second-tier nous should help steer Derby clear of relegation trouble and into a stable position.