Millwall are interested in signing 36-year-old midfielder Barry Bannan, who could be on the way out of Hillsborough after racking up nearly 500 appearances in eleven seasons representing the Owls.
The former Scottish international is out of contract at the end of the 2025/26 season.
So with just a matter of months remaining on his contract, it’s no surprise to see the Sheffield Wednesday captain attracting interest.
Millwall, along with Stoke City and Preston North End, are said to be interested.
A deal to sign Wednesday’s creative wizard should be seen as imperative for all three sides.
However it’s arguably most imperative for Alex Neil’s side and here’s why.
It’s no secret Millwall have been victim to injuries, with over ten first team players absent in recent weeks.
The midfield position has suffered severely here with all first team midfielders injured at that time.
This led to a makeshift midfield consisting of left back Alfie Doughty sitting alongside right winger Camiel Neghli.
Fast forward to present day and Billy Mitchell is back from injury and has featured in midfield alongside Doughty in previous games.
Encouragingly, midfielders such as Casper De Norre and Luke Cundle are also eyeing up impending returns within the next week.
However, options remain limited and it will take time to reintroduce the returning midfielders back into the squad and manage minutes effectively.
Therefore, why not take a look at Bannan, who has featured in every game for the Owls this season?
Aside from Billy Mitchell (24), who has consistently played in the Championship since 2019, the club lack significant championship experience available currently in the middle of the park.
Luongo (33) covered this department of experience perfectly with over 200 Championship appearances.
However, the Aussie suffered a cruciate ligament injury back in October, against one of Luongo’s former sides in QPR. A return is not anticipated this season.
This is where Bannan could fit in perfectly, in rotation with Mitchell/De Norre who would be first choice when fit.
Touching back on the previously mentioned partnership of Billy Mitchell and Casper De Norre.
There’s no doubt this pairing offer endless energy and interceptions, De Norre averaging 1.6 interceptions per game last season.
However from a creative perspective, the pair aren’t seen as consistent options to provide such wizardry.
So who better to introduce into that midfield than Barry Bannan. The Scot is currently averaging at two chances created a game this season.
This creative spark is exactly what the Lions need should they look to maintain their position in the Play Offs, perhaps sparking more opportunities for attackers like Azeez and Ivanovic.
The Lions have already held an interest in Bannan this season. The club rivalled Middlesbrough in pursuit of Barry Bannan back in August.
The midfielder went on to sign a new deal with Sheffield Wednesday however.
Time is ticking on Bannan’s days in Sheffield, and to the same effect is the time ticking on Millwall to look to add further depth and quality to this seasons play off push.
With the above reasons outlined, surely it’s a no brainer for Bermondsey’s finest to be considering Bannan’s services right?
