Derby County have triggered their option of a one-year extension to Jason Knight’s contract.
But the Republic of Ireland ace still looks poised to leave the League One club during the summer.
The Rams missed out on the playoffs after a defeat on the final day of the season and will remain in the third tier.
READ MORE: Evan Ferguson told to learn from Robbie Keane's ill-fated move to Inter Milan by Tony Cascarino
Under the terms of his existing deal, Derby had the option of extending Knight’s contract for another 12 months.
And manager Paul Warne confirmed yesterday that it has been activated after Derby published a list of their retained players for next season.
But despite triggering the extension, they are still braced for a number of bids for ex-Cabinteely man Knight this summer.
Knight, 22, knows his international prospects could be harmed the longer he plays in League One, with a move to the Championship or Premier League desirable.
Fellow Ireland internationals Conor Hourihane and James Collins are under contract at the club next season, as is Ireland U21 ace Eiran Cashin.
Former Ireland star David McGoldrick is out of contract but in talks about a new deal.
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