Transfer news: Derby County insist Will Hughes won’t leave in January despite interest from Manchester United and Liverpool

Derby hotshot isn't leaving the East Midlands despite Premier League interest, according to the Rams' CEO

Midfielder Will Hughes is only 18 but has become a Derby regular (Getty images)

Sam Rush, Derby County’s chief executive, has told Will Hughes’ suitors that the 18-year-old playmaker will not be leaving the iPro Stadium in January.

After impressing once more during yesterday’s 2-0 defeat to Chelsea in the FA Cup third round, speculation returned that the England Under-21 star would be leaving the second tier and was headed for the Premier League.

The Rams have been in stunning form since the arrival of Steve McClaren, winning eight of their last ten Championship games, and many have isolated Hughes as a key figure in their renaissance in fortunes.

Despite growing interest from the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal; Rush remains unequivocal that the Derby star will not be leaving anytime soon.

“Will is best placed in Derby,” he said.

“There is a huge amount for him to achieve here and I don't feel commercially it is the right time for us to entertain any other discussions.

“You look at a variety of factors when you make a decision. Is it right for the player? Has he already maximised his contribution to the club - is there any more he can do for us? And is he at the height of his potential in income you can generate?

“The answer to all three is no.”