Derby County news from DerbyshireLive brings you the latest as the Rams look to the future as well as the present
15:58, 08 Jan 2026
Derby County have handed a professional contract to young academy midfielder Charlie Smith.
Smith has penned a deal until the end of the 2027/28 season and follows academy players Luca Crolla and Rio Canoville in signing pro deals.
The teenager joined Derby at under-9s level and progressed through the ranks, and has featured regularly for their under-18s and 21s.
A maiden appearance in Premier League 2 then followed in November during which he registered an assist for Owen Eames against Blackburn Rovers Under-21s.
He then received a nomination for the League Football Education Goal of the Month award for November with an audacious long-range lob in a friendly against Burton Albion under-18s.
Smith said: “It’s one of the best days of my life. I can’t describe the feeling of signing this deal.
“I feel it is a reward for all the years of hard work and dedication from my family, with the sacrifices they’ve made. It’s a really proud day for all of us.
“I’ve had great experiences all the way through my time with the Academy. We’ve won tours and Premier League tournaments, and it has been amazing.
“Everyone at Derby County has helped me get to where I am now. Hopefully I can kick on and keep taking my opportunities.”
Derby County’s Academy Manager Matt Hale added: “Charlie has demonstrated exceptional progress since commencing his scholarship less than six months ago.
“Charlie is a very skilful attacking midfielder who plays with real positive guile. He is an exciting player to watch and has caught the eye of the senior coaching staff at the club, where he regularly trains with the First Team.
“He is definitely a player to look out for, and I’m sure he will have exciting career ahead of him.”
Who do you think can make it to the top? Have your say HERE.