Derby County have finalised the permanent signing of defender Dion Sanderson from Birmingham City, the club has confirmed. The Rams have secured the centre-back for an undisclosed fee, understood to be in the six-figure region, after his impressive performances on a season-long loan.
Sanderson Becomes a Permanent Ram
The deal, completed on 31 December 2025, represents a significant piece of business for Derby. Sanderson has been a consistent and outstanding performer at the heart of the defence since joining on loan in the summer, making 21 Championship starts and scoring his first goal for the club in a 3-2 defeat to Watford.
Discussing the move, Sanderson expressed his delight. "It's exciting and a massive honour," he said. "I can't thank the lads, the staff and the fans enough for giving me such a great time so far. Long may it continue." He revealed that talks over a permanent switch had progressed in recent weeks, culminating in the completed transfer.
A Crucial Figure in Eustace's Plans
Sanderson has established himself as a crucial part of head coach John Eustace's squad, contributing to Derby's stabilisation in the Championship mid-table. The defender has a long-standing working relationship with Eustace, having played under him at Queens Park Rangers, Birmingham City, and Blackburn Rovers prior to their reunion at Pride Park.
"I think me knowing the gaffer well helped," Sanderson admitted, "but even if he wasn't here, it was a move that I'd want to make. Derby is just a massive club... I couldn't picture myself anywhere else right now; Derby is the one for me."
Transfer Implications for Both Clubs
The permanent transfer also has strategic benefits for Derby as they approach the January window, as it frees up a valuable loan slot in their squad. For Birmingham City, it concludes Sanderson's association with the club, bringing in a transfer fee for a player who was spending the campaign away from St Andrew's.
Sanderson praised the impact of the Derby supporters, adding: "The fans have been amazing for me personally as well. I've really enjoyed going out and playing for them." With his future now secured, the defender will aim to continue his influential form for the Rams in the second half of the season.
