EFL player signs with KSI’s Baller League team and accepts ‘contract clause’

April 28, 2026 Oliver Obel

In a significant moment for the evolving landscape of football, Derby County goalkeeper Harvey Rees has made history by becoming the first active EFL player to feature in KSI's Baller League, doing so with the full approval of his Championship club. The 18-year-old, currently part of Derby's U18 squad, debuted for PRIME FC on Monday evening, contributing to their dominant 7-1 victory over Wembley Rangers, a team notably managed by former England internationals Alan Shearer and Ian Wright. Rees's participation marks a notable shift in how professional clubs are approaching player involvement in new, influencer-led football ventures.

Derby's unique permission and the medical waiver

While Rees is in the second year of a two-year scholarship deal at Pride Park, he has yet to feature for Derby's reserve sides this season. His professional experience includes a brief work experience loan spell at seventh-tier Southern Premier League South Division side Hungerford Town. Despite his developing status within the professional game, Derby County has given its explicit blessing for Rees to participate in the 7-a-side tournament. To secure his place, Rees was required to sign a medical waiver, as reported by BBC Radio Derby. Although the specific terms of the waiver remain undisclosed, it is widely understood to be a protective measure for Derby, safeguarding the club in the event Rees sustains an injury while playing for PRIME FC. Players in the Baller League receive a fee of £400 per match, offering an additional incentive for participation.

A contrasting approach to player involvement

Derby's forward-thinking stance stands in stark contrast to the experience of other players and clubs involved in the Baller League. Notably, Sak Hassan's club side, Wealdstone, publicly criticised his participation, stating they had not granted permission for him to play. This highlights the differing philosophies among professional clubs regarding their players engaging in these emerging football formats. At PRIME FC, managed by KSI, Rees joins a diverse squad featuring a mix of established non-league talent and personalities. His teammates include Timmy Abraham, brother of Aston Villa star Tammy Abraham, former Barnet and Dagenham & Redbridge midfielder Mauro Vilhete, and ex-Love Island contestant Montel McKenzie. Rees's groundbreaking involvement with Derby's blessing could pave the way for more active professional players to explore opportunities within these rapidly growing alternative football leagues. Sources: www.sportbible.com