Danny Batth rejects Derby County contract, likely to leave

Defender Danny Batth, 35, has turned down a contract offer from Derby County and is now unlikely to sign a new deal, meaning he will probably depart Pride Park after his contract expires this summer, having featured in just 12 matches overall last season after arriving from Blackburn.

Batth made 12 appearances in all competitions during the campaign following his move from Blackburn. His arrival at Derby County had been anticipated after leaving the Blackburn side.

The defender rejected the renewal proposal put forward by Derby County. reports the club considers the offer a fair valuation, yet the 35‑year‑old is now highly unlikely to re‑sign.

With his current contract set to run out this summer, Batth is expected to leave Pride Park. The club’s assessment suggests the deal on the table was reasonable, but the stalwart will move on once the agreement expires.

John Eustace, Derby County’s head coach, had previously worked with Batth at Blackburn and regarded him as a standard‑setter. Eustace trusted Batth to provide regular football based on their earlier collaboration.

Injury problems after his summer arrival limited Batth’s involvement, causing him to fall down the pecking order. He managed only ten Championship matches last season as a result of those setbacks.

Eustace will need to replace Batth’s experience and knowledge of the second tier as he builds the squad for the next season. The defender’s departure creates a gap in Derby County’s defensive options ahead of upcoming campaigns.