Derby County are expected to step up their transfer activity during the closing weeks of the summer window, with player exits likely to accompany any new arrivals. One departure now appears increasingly likely, as Liam Thompson edges closer to a permanent switch to Mansfield Town.
According to reports, Derby and Mansfield have reached an agreement over a transfer fee for the 24-year-old midfielder. The League One club are currently leading the race for Thompson’s signature, with talks continuing as both sides work to complete the move.
Thompson has just one year remaining on his contract at Pride Park. Injuries limited his impact last season, but he still made 18 appearances under head coach John Eustace.
A product of Derby’s academy, Thompson broke into the senior squad during the club’s financial crisis in the 2021/22 campaign. Aside from a brief loan spell at Scunthorpe United in 2023, he has remained part of the Rams’ first-team setup ever since.
He played an important role in Derby’s promotion back to the Championship in 2024 and contributed to the club’s successful battle against relegation last season alongside Ebou Adams and former loanee Harrison Armstrong.
However, with Derby strengthening their squad and aiming higher, regular first-team opportunities could become harder to secure. A move to Mansfield would give Thompson the chance to play consistently while allowing Derby to receive a transfer fee rather than risk losing him on a free transfer when his contract expires next year.
The transfer appears to suit everyone involved. Mansfield would gain a proven Championship-quality midfielder, Thompson would enjoy the opportunity for regular football, and Derby would benefit financially. If the move is completed, he is expected to leave Pride Park with the appreciation and best wishes of the club’s supporters.
Mansfield hope Thompson can become a key figure as Nigel Clough’s side look to climb the League One table. The midfielder will be eager to rediscover his best form and, in the long term, work towards another opportunity to play in the Championship.
At Field Mill, Thompson is set to compete for a place alongside John Russell, Louis Reed, Nathan Moriah-Welsh, Regan Hendry and George Maris in Mansfield’s midfield.
