Ryan Hedges Joins Derby County on Free Transfer

Ryan Hedges has linked back up with John Eustace at Derby County, completing a free transfer to Pride Park as the Rams continue to reshape their squad.

The 31-year-old winger has signed an initial one-year contract, with Derby holding an option to extend his stay by a further 12 months.

Hedges departed Blackburn Rovers in the summer after his deal at Ewood Park expired, ending a four-year spell in East Lancashire that included working under Eustace during the 2024-2025 campaign. The understanding built there now carries into a new chapter in the East Midlands.

This move has been in motion for weeks. Hedges reported for pre-season with Derby last month and has already featured in friendlies against Alfreton Town and SC Freiburg, giving supporters an early glimpse of what he offers out wide.

A three-cap former Wales international, Hedges brings a well-travelled CV. He has played European football with Aberdeen in both the Europa League and Conference League, and previously turned out for Barnsley, Yeovil Town, Leyton Orient and Stevenage Borough.

He becomes Derby’s sixth signing of the summer, another experienced piece added to Eustace’s plans as the Rams push into the new season with familiar trust on the touchline and, now, on the flank as well.