Derby County eye £5m Palace transfer amid fresh Alalshikh takeover developments

Derby County target £5m David Ozoh reunion as Crystal Palace talks emerge

Derby County are continuing to accelerate their summer recruitment, with head coach John Eustace looking to build a squad capable of mounting another serious promotion challenge.

The Rams have already welcomed Bobby Clark on a permanent basis after his successful loan spell, while Charlie Taylor and Filip Bilbija have also arrived on free transfers. A deal for Sammie Szmodics is also progressing, and another familiar face could soon make a permanent return to Pride Park.

Crystal Palace midfielder David Ozoh has reportedly emerged as a target, with Derby exploring the possibility of bringing the 21-year-old back after two seasons on loan.

Ozoh initially joined Derby under Paul Warne before returning last season, when he developed a strong relationship with Eustace and became an important part of the squad whenever available.

According to reports, Derby are considering a permanent deal for the midfielder, with Palace thought to value him at around £5 million. No formal bid has been made yet, but the Rams’ interest is understood to be genuine.

Ozoh has made 47 appearances for Derby across his two loan spells, scoring three goals, although injuries have limited his overall playing time. The midfielder remains highly rated because of his technical ability and potential to develop further at just 21.

His return could also become more realistic if Derby’s proposed investment involving Turki Alalshikh is completed, potentially giving the club greater financial flexibility during the remainder of the transfer window.

Eustace has already made it clear that he would like to keep several of last season’s loan players, although he accepts that the final decisions are outside his control.

With Lewis Travis, Oscar Fraulo and Liam Thompson also competing for midfield places, adding another player of Ozoh’s profile would give Eustace further options in the centre of the pitch.

Derby supporters have already developed a strong appreciation for the midfielder during his time at the club, making the prospect of a permanent return particularly appealing to many fans.

A deal remains some way from completion, but with Derby continuing to strengthen and Ozoh already familiar with the club and manager, the possibility of seeing him back at Pride Park on a permanent basis is one supporters will be watching closely.