Derby County have been advised to consider a move for Blackburn Rovers captain Todd Cantwell as an alternative if Anis Mehmeti is unattainable. Cantwell is in the final year of his contract at Ewood Park, which could enable a reunion with manager John Eustace, with whom he worked at Rovers a couple of years ago. This summer is likely to be Blackburn’s last opportunity to receive a fee for Cantwell, although it is thought to be doubtful that the club will intend to sell him.

Todd Cantwell is regarded as an excellent alternative for Derby if the club is unsuccessful in securing permanent deals for Clark or Brereton Diaz. The Blackburn captain has one year remaining on his contract and is yet to sign a new deal, which could lead to him transferring this summer.

According to SportsBoom, Derby are the leading contender to sign 27-year-old English attacking midfielder Todd Cantwell from Blackburn Rovers, where he is the club captain. The opportunity has emerged due to a contract stand-off, as Cantwell is demanding a wage he believes reflects his form since joining in 2024. Blackburn's club chief, Rudy Gestede, has admitted that the club cannot compete with such wage demands, which has created an opportunity for Derby. A potential playoff place for Derby could boost their finances sufficiently to meet Cantwell's terms in the summer. In addition to growing interest from the Championship, it is reported that Cantwell's former club Rangers are also interested. In the current 2025/2026 Championship season, Cantwell has scored 4 goals and provided 3 assists in 20 appearances. He has been capped 4 times for the England U21 team. His current market value is €3.00m, according to Transfermarkt, and Blackburn Rovers reportedly paid €590,000 to sign him from Rangers in August 2024.