Valerien Ismael hands Derby County ultimatum as Lewis Travis makes decision on Blackburn Rovers future

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Derby County progressed through to the second round of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday evening, despite West Brom leading at The Hawthorns until the 96th minute.

Aune Heggebo finally broke the deadlock for the Baggies just after the hour mark, as Ryan Mason’s side dominated the game in terms of both possession and the number of chances they created.

However, a sensational Joe Ward free kick in the final minute of the game saw the Rams take the game to penalties, with the goal their only shot on target in the clash. John Eustace’s side held their nerve and continued with their excellent record over West Brom.

Nevertheless, that was not the only story coming out of Derby on Tuesday evening, with it emerging that a £1.5m bid for Blackburn Rovers captain Lewis Travis was rejected. Now, the midfielder has made a decision on his future.

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Valerien Ismael issues update on Lewis Travis’ future amid Derby County interest

The Rams have shown an interest in Travis throughout the summer, but their pursuit has stepped up in the last 24 hours and the 27-year-old has now asked to leave Rovers, as per Elliott Jackson.

He was an unused sub for the Lancashire outfit on Tuesday night as his side were beaten 2-1 by League One side Bradford City at Ewood Park. Following the game Valerien Ismael explained what Derby must do to sign the Blackburn ace.

He said (via: Lancashire Telegraph): “He has asked to leave the club. We say that if the price is right for the club, then we will see. But at the minute, it’s not the case. When a player is out of contract or has one year left on his contract, he looks after himself.

“It’s not only about Travis, it’s about the football world. He is focused on himself, which is understandable, but we are doing the same as a club. We have a clear idea of what we want. Either we keep our captain or someone matches the price we expected.”

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It seems likely that John Eustace will reunite with Lewis Travis this summer

Eustace has already brought in four players who he previously managed at Blackburn, with Andreas Weimann, Danny Batth, Dion Sanderson and Owen Beck all joining the Rams this summer.

However, Travis is the one he truly wants, and at this moment in time, it would be extremely surprising to see the Rovers captain remain at Ewood Park once the transfer window shuts on 1 September.

Yet, Derby will have to return with an improved offer in the coming days if they are to add to their midfield once again.

The Rams are looking to extend their excellent home record against Coventry City this weekend, and Eustace will be hoping to see some progress in the negotiations with Blackburn for the ex-Ipswich Town man.