John Eustace raised eyebrows when he left playoff-chasers Blackburn Rovers to join Derby County midway through the 2024/25 Championship season.
This summer, he has looked to put his mark on the Rams’ squad by making a number of signings, and the club have just agreed a deal for another highly-impressive player.
Derby County Agree Fee For Max Johnston
As per Sky Sports News’ Anthony Joseph, Derby County have agreed a fee of £3.5 million with Austrian top-flight club Sturm Graz to sign right-back Max Johnston.
The Rams will pay an initial fee of £2.2 million, with a final £1.3 million being available in the form of add-ons. Joseph has reported that Derby have made numerous bids for the Scotsman, with their first offer being worth a staggering £2.1 million less than the fee they have now agreed.
It should also be noted that Eustace’s side are yet to fully agree on personal terms with Johnston, though Joseph reports that talks are already at an “advanced stage”.
The 21-year-old has been a subject of interest from a number of clubs in League One and the Championship this summer. Initial rumours linked the full-back with Birmingham City and Luton Town, whilst there was also talk that he may move to Oxford United, Swansea City or Stoke City on loan.
Why Were So Many Clubs Interested In Johnston?
Despite only being 21 years of age, Johnston has carved out an excellent reputation in men’s football.
He made his senior debut for Motherwell when he was less than 18 years of age and, after loans at Queen of the South and Cove Rangers, he went on to play 22 times in the Scottish Premiership for the Steelmen.
His impressive form in Scotland led to him getting a move to the Austrian Bundesliga with Sturm Graz, who have won the league for the two seasons he has been there.
Johnston has scored two goals and made eight assists for the Austrian giants whilst also playing in all three European competitions and breaking into the Scottish national team, meaning he has incredible pedigree for a potential Championship player.
Having impressed in such a competitive league at such a young age, Johnston also has immense potential and could command a hefty fee for his new club in the near future.
Although Ryan Nyambe, Joe Ward and Kane Smith are solid options at right wing back for Eustace’s side, Johnston should add a level of dynamism to the Derby team that will help them to climb up the table after an unimpressive start to the season.