Derby County Sign 25-Year-Old Liverpool Forward For £25m

Liverpool transfer news continues to generate headlines, with focus not only on incomings but also on the journeys of former players. While Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak dominates the top-line stories, another transfer development has emerged in the Championship involving one of the club’s former academy stars.

BREWSTER FINDS NEW CHAPTER AT DERBY COUNTY

Derby County have confirmed the signing of Rhian Brewster on a two-year deal following his release from Sheffield United. Once considered among Liverpool’s brightest youth prospects before a £25m move, the 25-year-old striker is looking to relaunch his career under Paul Warne at Pride Park.

Brewster joined Liverpool from Chelsea’s academy in 2015 and quickly made a name for himself, particularly with his outstanding performances on the international stage. He earned the Golden Boot at the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup after scoring eight goals for England, raising expectations around his potential breakthrough at senior level.

Though prolific at youth level and part of the matchday squad that lifted the Champions League trophy in 2019, Brewster struggled to secure a regular first-team role at Liverpool. His four senior appearances came exclusively in domestic cup competitions, as fierce competition for places limited opportunities.

INJURY STRUGGLES MAR SHEFFIELD UNITED SPELL

A move to Sheffield United was designed to offer Brewster regular Premier League football, but injuries told a different story. The striker endured a series of persistent hamstring issues that saw him spend extended time on the sidelines.

His debut Premier League campaign ended without a goal from 27 appearances, and the following seasons were similarly disrupted. Those setbacks contributed to an underwhelming stint at Bramall Lane, eventually leading to his release at the end of the 2024–25 season.

Now at Derby County, Brewster has a fresh opportunity to rediscover his form and fitness in a competitive Championship environment.

BREWSTER’S REACTION TO DERBY COUNTY MOVE

Speaking to the club’s media team after the announcement, Brewster shared his enthusiasm for the next step in his career:

“I’m very happy and very delighted to join this great club,” he said.

“It’s been busy, but after speaking to all the boys and the manager and stuff like that, it was a no-brainer.”

“I feel this is a big opportunity for me – and one I had to grab with two hands. Hopefully, I can show that this year.”

“There is so much more for me to do – I’ve got a point to prove. I feel like I can always get better, no matter how old you are.”

“There are always things to learn. I believe that will happen here with the manager, staff and players alongside helping me along the way.”

LIVERPOOL LOAN STRATEGY CONTINUES

Elsewhere in Liverpool transfer news, Arne Slot continues to oversee strategic player development. Owen Beck has joined Derby County on a season-long loan after renewing his contract at Anfield, while Isaac Mabaya has completed a temporary switch to League One side Wigan Athletic.

Both moves reflect Liverpool’s commitment to nurturing young talent through competitive minutes in the Football League, aligning with the club’s longer-term squad-building plans.