Szmodics set for permanent Town exit amid appearance clause reports

Ipswich Town attacker Sam Szmodics is reportedly set to complete a permanent transfer to Derby County after triggering an appearance-based clause. The 31-year-old originally joined Derby on loan for the second half of the 2025/26 campaign and returned on another loan deal in August. According to reports from Derbyshire Live, the obligation to buy was activated after Szmodics featured in eight matches across all competitions this season.

The transfer fee for the Republic of Ireland international will depend on Derby County's league status under manager John Eustace. Derby will pay £2.7 million if they remain in the Championship, with the fee rising to around £5 million if they achieve promotion to the Premier League. Szmodics previously scored five goals in 39 games for Ipswich Town following his move from Blackburn Rovers.