MK Dons have confirmed the signing of defender Curtis Nelson, who joins the League 2 side from Championship outfit Derby County.

The 32-year-old has become the Dons’ third new arrival of the January 2026 transfer window, following the previously announced arrivals of Ben Wiles and Jay Matete. Wilson moves on an undisclosed fee and has signed a contract of undisclosed length at Stadium MK.

The move sees Nelson reunite with his former Derby boss Paul Warne, having signed for the Rams from Blackpool in 2023 when Warne was in charge at Pride Park.

In all, the defender made 83 appearances for the Rams, scoring 4 times in all competitions.

During his career, Nelson has also represented Plymouth, Oxford, Cardiff and Blackpool, making close to 600 competitive appearances in his career.

Nelson told the club’s official website that he was looking forward to helping the club achieve its goals.

He said, “We’re in a good position now to go and push on, and this second half of the season is going to be key for us. It’ll be a busy period this January. So, we’ve just got to make sure that we keep building on the momentum that has already been built and get the job done. There’s obviously an aim in sight, and that’s not going to change.”

MK Dons’ Head Coach Paul Warne added, “I’m really pleased! Obviously, I’ve worked with him before, which makes it less of a risk.

“He brings a lot of quality; he’s a threat in the air in both boxes, which will really help us.

“He’s a really good organiser, he trained today, and the lads certainly heard him pulling them around, which is great.

“As a coach, you want leaders in your team, particularly if you’re going to be successful!

“He’s a really good player and person, and he’s been welcomed warmly into the dressing room.”