Derby County warn Arsenal and Liverpool they are determined to delay sale of midfield prodigy Will Hughes But Derby are determined to retain him for the rest of the Championship season as they believe his valuation could double if he continues to improve. It is understood that Manchester City could step up their interest at the end of the season, while other Premier League clubs, including Chelsea, may also come into the running. Nigel Clough, the Derby manager, said: "I think a few of the big boys are watching him which is a great compliment to him, but we will do everything we can to hang on to him. To do what he has done at 17½ just goes to show the potential that he has. If he stays grounded, does not get carried away and does things right for the next 18 months it will set him up for his career. Derby are over budget and want to raise nearly £2 million. A likely option is the sale of defender John Brayford, to Cardiff. Brayford, 24, would cost around £1.25 million but the fee and freeing up his wages would allow Derby to meet their target.