Derby County set to see third bid accepted for key transfer target Max Johnston
Derby County narrowly escaped relegation on the final day of the 2024/25 season, finishing 19th after looking destined for the drop before John Eustace’s arrival. With him now firmly in charge, DCFC are hoping brighter days lie ahead.
This summer has been a busy one at Pride Park as the club looks to improve on last year’s struggles, with seven new arrivals already through the door ahead of the season opener. Patrick Agyemang, Carlton Morris, and Rhian Brewster have been brought in to boost the forward line, while Danny Batth and Owen Beck add steel and stability at the back.
However, more business is set to be done after the opening day defeat to Stoke City. One man that Derby County have been heavily linked with this summer is Max Johnston, and they remain firmly in pursuit.
According to Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph, via X, Derby County are preparing another bid for the Sturm Graz defender. DCFC have had two bids rejected for the full-back, which were believed to be valued at £1.4m and £1.6m.
Southampton have been credited with interest in Johnston but are not in running at this stage it seems. Greek side Panathinaikos are monitoring Johnston’s situation too.
More on Derby County target Max Johnston
Although a Scottish international, Johnston was born in Middlesbrough and developed in the Motherwell academy, where his impressive breakthrough earned him a move to Austrian side Sturm Graz in July 2023.
Since arriving, he has helped the club secure back-to-back Austrian Bundesliga titles and a domestic cup, establishing himself as a key member of the squad. Over the past year, he has made 60 appearances for the team.
Now reportedly on Southampton’s radar, Johnston registered one goal and six assists in 31 matches during the 2024/25 campaign, featuring five times in the Champions League. He is still under contract for another two years, making any potential transfer a challenging prospect.
Derby County’s right-back woes
Derby County have several right-back options, but John Eustace is still seeking reinforcements. Kane Wilson and Ryan Nyambe shared the role last season, each sidelined at different times.
Wilson offers attacking flair but can be defensively vulnerable, while Nyambe is solid at the back but limited going forward. Nyambe was given the nod against Stoke City but struggled massively.
Wilson is also in the final year of his contract with no extension agreed. Johnston would be a big upgrade for Derby County; it is easy to see why they are so keen.
Leave a Reply