Breaking: Derby County confirm Birmingham City transfer

Derby County have signed Birmingham City defender Dion Sanderson on a permanent deal, the club has confirmed.

The centre-back has moved to Pride Park for an undisclosed fee, which DerbyshireLive understands to be a six-figure sum.

It marks another impressive bit of business from Derby with Sanderson having been an excellent performer for the Rams since signing on a season-long loan from Blues in the summer.

He has become a key part of John Eustace's side since the season began with the centre-back having become a regular fixture in the heart of the defence.

The move also means Derby have freed up a loan spot as they approach the January window.

Speaking about the deal, Sanderson said: "It's exciting and a massive honour. I can’t thank the lads, the staff and the fans enough for giving me such a great time so far. Long may it continue.

At the start, I just wanted to get my head down and play, and I've been grateful for the opportunity of being able to do that.

"But over the past few weeks there have been a few conversations [about joining permanently], and thankfully we got it over the line."

Sanderson has made 21 starts for Derby in the Championship this season and scored his first goal for the club in a 3-2 defeat to Watford.

He has signed for head coach John Eustace on several occasions having worked with him at QPR, Birmingham, Blackburn and now Derby.

He has helped Derby stabilise their position in the Championship table with the club currently in mid-table.

And Sanderson added: "Derby is just a massive club. I think me knowing the gaffer [John Eustace] well helped, but even if he wasn't here, it was a move that I'd want to make.

"The fans have been amazing for me personally as well. I've really enjoyed going out and playing for them.

"I think the lads that are here now are a great bunch of boys. I couldn't picture myself anywhere else right now; Derby is the one for me."

Sanderson's arrival is now likely to be followed by that of Oscar Fraulo with the Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder poised to have his deal confirmed in the coming days.

A contract until 2029 is on the table for the 22-year-old with the midfielder set to arrive for a six-figure fee.

However, Fraulo is likely to be given time to integrate into the squad before moving into first-team contention.

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