Derby County are considering a move for Utrecht left-back Derry Murkin late in the window, according to the Telegraph’s live transfer blog (10.58, 02/02/26).
Derby County are among the clubs pushing for a place in the Championship play-offs this season. A strong start to 2026 has DCFC sitting 7th in the table, just two points adrift of the top six.
The Rams have not stood still during the winter window either. Several fringe players have moved on, with the club now targeting reinforcements as the transfer window enters its closing stages.
A new left-back is on the agenda ahead of today’s deadline, according to the Telegraph’s live transfer blog (10.58, 02/02/26). They are reporting that Derby County are considering a move for Utrecht left-back Derry Murkin.
After Owen Beck was recalled due to injury, DCFC have been looking for a new left-back this month. In Murkin they will hope to have their man before the window slams shut come 19:00.
Who is DCFC target Derry Murkin?
The left-back is English but has never played in England. Murkin moved to the Netherlands at the age of four due to his mother’s work, with his early football development shaped there.
He began his senior career at FC Volendam, making his debut during the 2018–19 season. Initially deployed as a winger, he impressed for Jong Volendam with 23 goals in 42 appearances between 2017 and 2020.
He was subsequently promoted to the first team, going on to make 93 appearances and score nine goals from 2019 to 2023, playing a key role in Volendam’s promotion to the Eredivisie in 2022. Under coaching guidance, Murkin successfully transitioned to left-back, establishing himself as an energetic, attack-minded full-back known for his crossing ability and versatility.
In August 2023, Murkin joined German 2. Bundesliga side Schalke 04 on a three-year deal for a fee of around €800,000. He made 54 appearances and scored once across two seasons, providing assists and consistent defensive performances during a challenging period for the club.
Derry Murkin’s career stats
| Club | Games | Goals | Assists |
| FC Volendam | 97 | 9 | 23 |
| Volendam U19 | 62 | 19 | 7 |
| FC Schalke 04 | 57 | 1 | 9 |
| Volendam U21 | 44 | 24 | 2 |
| Utrecht | 22 | 2 | 4 |
In May 2025, seeking greater top-flight stability, he returned to the Netherlands with a move to FC Utrecht for a reported €1.2 million, potentially rising to €1.5 million with add-ons, signing a four-year contract through to 2029. As of early 2026, he has settled well into Utrecht’s Eredivisie squad.
A busy end to a busy window for Derby County
Their has been several players going in and out the door at Derby this month. They are not done ahead of the deadline, but even if no business is done, it has been a successful window.
Fringe players such as Curtis Nelson, Corey Blackett-Taylor and Kayden Jackson have all moved on. Ebou Adams has also left the club to join Championship side Portsmouth.
In terms of incomings, the club have made three signings so far. Dion Sanderson had his move made permanent, while Oscar Fraulo and Jayden Banel have also arrived.
Moves for Murkin and Ipswich Town’s Sammie Szmodics may be on the agenda today. Amine Bassi is another who has been linked with the club recently, but that has quietened down.
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