West Bromwich Albion have rejected an offer from Derby County for Alex Mowatt, underlining that they are not prepared to let the 31-year-old leave on the cheap while he still has one year left on his contract at The Hawthorns.
The move is a straightforward reminder of Mowatt’s value to West Brom. Since joining in 2021, he has become a regular figure for the club and has already made 170 appearances, which gives clear context to why an approach from a Championship rival was never likely to be met with an easy yes.
Why West Brom have held their line
For West Brom, this is about more than simply turning down a bid. Mowatt has remained part of the team’s plans, and that was shown again on Saturday when he started West Bromwich Albion's Carabao Cup win at Rotherham.
That selection matters because it reinforces the picture of a player who is still trusted in the squad. A midfielder with that level of experience, and with a year still to run on his deal, is always likely to attract interest. But West Brom have made their position clear for now.
What Derby County must decide next
Derby County’s interest suggests they see Mowatt as a player who can strengthen them immediately. Yet the rejection means they now have to decide whether to return with another offer or move on to other targets.
For West Brom, the key point is control. They have not been forced into a decision, and they remain in a position where they can judge Mowatt’s future on their own terms. With his contract still running for another year, that leverage remains firmly with The Hawthorns club.
Whether Derby County try again or look elsewhere, this is a situation that now serves as a small but clear statement from West Brom: they are willing to keep hold of a reliable midfielder unless the deal suits them.
