Derby Boss Responds to Bobby Clark Interest

The talk around Celtic’s reported January move for Bobby Clark has made its way to Derby County, and boss John Eustace has had his say.

Reports claimed Celtic were lining up a €7 million bid to bring the midfielder to Glasgow, but Eustace quickly dismissed the idea of any deal being close.

Speaking before Derby’s next game, Eustace said it was the first he’d heard of Celtic’s interest. He admitted it’s flattering for one of his players to be linked with a club like Celtic, but made clear that Clark is an important part of what they’re building at Pride Park.

Clark has stood out since joining Derby, showing real quality on the ball and maturity for a 20-year-old. He’s earned his place in the side and Eustace wants that development to keep going for the rest of the campaign.

The Derby boss pointed to Clark’s rise as proof of how the club helps young players grow and attract attention, even from big names like Celtic. But right now, there’s no plan to let him leave early, and Derby intend to keep hold of him at least until the summer.

He said: (BBC Sport Derby), “No, it’s the first I’ve heard of it.

“So, that’s interesting, but we certainly don’t want to lose him.

“I think we brought Bobby in to help develop him, to give him a platform to perform and he’s certainly done that up to now — there’s more to come from here.

“I think we’re developing in the right way, but this is the environment and the culture we set here at Derby.

“The players that come are going to be developed properly and it’s great that big clubs like Celtic are looking at him but we don’t want him to go anywhere.”

Eustace’s comments will likely end any short-term speculation over Clark’s future, at least until the January window opens. While Celtic’s interest may be genuine, Derby appear determined to keep the midfielder for the rest of the campaign.

From a Celtic point of view, it’s another sign that the club are widening their search for creative midfield options ahead of 2026. Rodgers has made no secret of wanting more flexibility and flair in that area of the pitch.

Clark’s name fits the profile, young, dynamic, technically sharp, but pulling him out of a successful loan mid-season could prove difficult. Unless Salzburg recall him or open the door, Celtic might need to look elsewhere for a winter signing.

Still, the link alone highlights how ambitious Celtic’s recruitment could be heading into the next window. Even if this one doesn’t come off, the message is clear: Rodgers and his team are planning early, and the club are watching some serious young talent.