Derby County have taken 18-year-old goalkeeper Alfie Halliwell on trial following his summer release from Rangers, as the Championship side weigh up a permanent move.
Who is Alfie Halliwell?
Halliwell graduated from Rangers’ academy before being let go this summer. Last season, he spent time on loan at Lowland League outfit Albion Rovers, making 23 appearances and conceding 57 goals across all competitions. The Scotland Under-19 international has earned five caps since his debut in 2025.
Why does this matter for Derby County?
The Rams are rebuilding their academy ranks after a tough spell in Premier League 2. After finishing bottom in 2023-24, they climbed to fourth from bottom the following season and then 24th last campaign. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 8th in Championship, 69 pts, 20W-9D-17L from 46 games, recent form LWLWL. Halliwell could bolster their Under 21s push for further improvement.
What’s next for Derby’s summer transfers?
Derby have already added Frankie Jones from Sheffield United and Kean Wren from Everton to their academy. They are also in the race to sign Brighton winger Tommy Watson on loan. Watson, 20, scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner in the 2025 Playoff Final for Sunderland against Sheffield United and made 12 appearances for Millwall last term.
