Sources: Derby County in advanced talks to sign Man City’s Divin Mubama
Manchester City striker Divin Mubama is attracting attention ahead of the new season, with Derby County emerging as a potential destination as the young forward looks for more regular first-team opportunities.
The 21-year-old has already shown glimpses of his quality since arriving at the Etihad Stadium. Mubama scored his first senior goal for Manchester City during their emphatic 8-0 FA Cup victory over Salford City, a moment that highlighted his ability to make an impact whenever called upon.
Derby County manager John Eustace is eager to strengthen his attacking options as the Rams prepare for another ambitious promotion push. Adding a young, energetic striker with significant potential is believed to be one of the club’s priorities, and Mubama fits the profile perfectly.
Mubama completed his move from West Ham United to Manchester City in the summer of 2024 in a deal reportedly worth around £2 million. The England youth international arrived with a growing reputation as one of the country’s brightest young forwards after consistently producing outstanding numbers throughout his development.
His record at academy level speaks for itself. Mubama found the back of the net 30 times in 47 appearances for West Ham’s Under-18 side before continuing his prolific form in Premier League 2, where he scored 26 goals in just 39 matches. Those performances convinced Manchester City they were signing a striker capable of developing into a top-level talent.
His goalscoring exploits have also continued on the international stage. Representing England’s Under-21 side, Mubama has scored five goals in only seven appearances, with every one of those strikes coming during the team’s successful qualification campaign for the UEFA European Under-21 Championship. His clinical finishing and intelligent movement have made him one of England’s standout young attackers.
A temporary move to Derby County could provide the perfect platform for Mubama to continue his development. Under Eustace, the Rams are building a squad capable of challenging near the top of the table, and consistent first-team football would give the striker an opportunity to showcase his talent over the course of a full season.
Mubama has already demonstrated his eye for goal with several memorable performances. One of the highlights of his young career came in November when he registered the first hat-trick of his professional career against Bristol City. His opening goal displayed classic centre-forward instincts as he slid in to convert a low cross from close range, while his second arrived after capitalising on an unusual error from goalkeeper Radek Vitek. The performance further underlined his composure in front of goal and reinforced why he is regarded as one of English football’s most promising young strikers.
With Manchester City continuing to monitor his progress, a loan spell at Derby could prove beneficial for all parties, giving Mubama valuable senior experience while providing the Rams with another dangerous attacking weapon as they chase promotion.