Derby County close in on historic loan ‘transfer’ deal

An unusual transfer situation has emerged involving Derby County and Prime FC, a team competing in the UK version of the Baller League.

The Baller League is a high-energy indoor football competition founded by Felix Starck, blending former professional players with online creators in a fast, social-media-friendly format. Its current season began in mid-March and will conclude with finals in early June.

Prime FC, meanwhile, are managed by KSI, who also serves as president of the UK league and is widely known as co-founder of the Prime alongside Logan Paul.

The connection to Derby County comes through academy goalkeeper Harvey Rees, who is set to join Prime FC in what is being treated as a loan-style move. The Baller League confirmed the deal, highlighting that Rees will become the first active academy player to feature in the competition marking a unique moment for both the club and the league.

Reports indicate that the move has been approved by Derby, with the necessary paperwork, including a medical waiver, already completed making it a rare and possibly unprecedented arrangement.

Rees’ current scholarship deal at Derby is due to expire this summer, which raises questions about his long-term future at the club. Some supporters believe the move may be an opportunity for the young goalkeeper to gain visibility after limited first-team pathway opportunities.

The 18-year-old Welsh keeper joined Derby’s Under-18 side two years ago after spells with Swansea City, and has since had brief stints within youth setups at Hull City and West Bromwich Albion. He also spent time on loan at lower-league side Hungerford, where his game time was limited.

With his time at Derby seemingly nearing its end, attention will now turn to how Rees adapts to this unconventional opportunity in a rapidly growing competition.