Derby County have re-signed Sam Szmodics from Ipswich Town on a season-long loan that, according to reports, carries an obligation to buy next summer. The move brings the 30-year-old forward back to Pride Park ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Return to the East Midlands
Szmodics spent time with the Rams in the second half of last season, where he reportedly contributed three goals and an assist. He now rejoins Derby after a spell at Ipswich that began in August 2024 when he moved from Blackburn Rovers for an initial fee reported as £9 million.
Manager Kieran McKenna previously said the player's departure from Ipswich was in the interest of the "dressing room dynamic".
The forward is a 12-cap Republic of Ireland international and will once again link up with coach John Eustace in the East Midlands, strengthening Derby's attacking options for the Championship campaign.
What the move means for Derby
This signing is intended to add experience and depth to Derby's forward line. Szmodics has played at Premier League level for Ipswich, where he scored four goals for the club during their time in the top flight, and has Championship experience from his time with Blackburn and his previous spell at Derby.
- Deal type: season-long loan from Ipswich Town
- Reported clause: obligation for Derby to buy next summer
- Player profile: 30-year-old forward, 12 international caps for the Republic of Ireland
Recent form and background
Reports detail a mixed period since his move to Ipswich in 2024. He scored in the Premier League for the club and later had a period back in the Championship. The timing of his temporary return to Derby follows a stint away from Pride Park in which his opportunities and goalscoring record were described in varying terms by regional reports.
| Club / Spell | Reported details |
|---|---|
| Blackburn Rovers | Previous club prior to August 2024 |
| Ipswich Town (from Aug 2024) | Joined for an initial £9m; scored 4 Premier League goals |
| Derby County (second half of last season) | Reported to have notched 3 goals and an assist |
| January 2026 (Championship) | Reports mention a goal against former club Blackburn |
Supporters will be watching how Szmodics integrates into the squad over pre-season and whether the reported obligation to buy is triggered by performance-related clauses or at a fixed point next summer. For Derby, the capture of a forward with Premier League experience represents a notable piece of business as the club prepares for the new Championship season.
Further official confirmation from the clubs involved, including any financial details or contract length beyond the loan season, is expected through Derby County and Ipswich Town communications channels.
