Derby County have made a formal approach to Blackburn Rovers over John Eustace as they look to accelerate a move for their first-choice manager target.

DerbyshireLive understands that the Rams are pressing ahead with a move for Eustace and have now been in contact with Blackburn over a potential deal. It’s said the 45-year-old could cost up to £750k in compensation to bring in from Ewood Park.

Eustace, a former Derby midfielder, has emerged as the man they want to succeed Paul Warne. Bookmakers stopped taking bets on Saturday with Eustace the heavy favourite to take over.

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While he would be trading a play-off battle for a relegation fight, there appears to be confidence that a move could happen. Eustace’s family are based in the Midlands while he has that prior connection to Derby. Plus, it’s been reported that he has been frustrated by transfer activity at Blackburn, where there are doubts over his long-term future.

Eustace is set to field questions on his next step after he takes charge of Rovers on Sunday, potentially for the final time. They host Premier League relegation battlers Wolves in the FA Cup fourth round, with kick-off at 12.30pm.

Warne was removed from the hotseat at Pride Park after a run of seven straight league defeats. The rot was stopped at the weekend under caretaker boss Matt Hamshaw, who led the side to a 1-1 draw with Norwich.

Eustace would be taking over a Derby side in the Championship’s bottom three. They are currently one point from safety and having played a game more than many of those sitting just above them.

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