Blackburn Rovers have been reported to hold an interest in Jack Thompson, the 19-year-old goalkeeper who became a free agent when his contract with Derby County expired at the end of June.
Where the interest comes from
The link to Ewood Park was raised by journalist Alan Nixon on his Patreon page, which suggested the Lancashire club could consider Thompson as they look to add depth to their goalkeeping department ahead of the 2026/27 Championship campaign.
Thompson’s situation at Derby
Derby County included Thompson on their retained list in mid-May and indicated discussions were ongoing about his future, but no agreement followed and his contract ran out. He is therefore available on a free transfer as he considers his next move in the game.
Blackburn’s goalkeeping picture
Blackburn are assessing their options for the coming season as Tony Mowbray returns to the dugout. The club’s current senior and academy goalkeeping stock includes Aynsley Pears, Jack Barrett and Felix Goddard. Reports suggest Balázs Tóth is attracting outside attention and could leave, which would prompt Rovers to seek further recruitment.
- Thompson is 19 and recently out of contract with Derby County.
- Blackburn may sign him on a free transfer to strengthen their U21/academy ranks.
- Any move would be seen as adding long-term depth rather than supplying an immediate senior first-choice keeper.
Practical implications for Derby and for Thompson
For Derby fans, Thompson’s departure would mark the loss of a young goalkeeper from the club’s development ranks, albeit one who was not tied to a new contract. For Thompson, a move to Blackburn could present a pathway into a different Championship club’s academy and potential future senior opportunities, particularly if he joins on a free deal and moves initially into an under-21 role.
| Player | Current status |
|---|---|
| Jack Thompson | Free agent (contract expired end of June) |
| Aynsley Pears | On Blackburn books |
| Balázs Tóth | Linked with interest elsewhere |
Blackburn begin their competitive fixtures with a Carabao Cup trip to Burton Albion this weekend, before a Championship home match against Wolverhampton Wanderers next Friday night. Any transfer activity involving goalkeepers is likely to be shaped by squad needs and potential departures in the coming weeks.
The situation remains fluid: Thompson has the freedom to choose his next destination, and Blackburn’s reported interest is one of several possible outcomes. Supporters of both clubs will be watching for formal announcements as pre-season progresses.
