Rotherham United Braced For Transfer Disappointment

Rotherham United looks set to miss out on one of their reported summer targets.

They had been linked with a move for Barnsley full-back Jordan Williams, who was made a free agent this summer following the Tykes’ failure to get out of League One. Darren Witcoop suggested Steve Evans’ side were in the hunt for Williams, who came through the ranks at Huddersfield Town.

However, Rotherham’s entry into League One now looks likely to cost them in the hunt for the 24-year-old. It’s being reported in The News in Portsmouth that Pompey, who replaced the Millers in the second tier, are now keen on the defender. They’re not the only Championship side eyeing a swoop – Cardiff City are also hunting the right back.

With two Championship sides in the chase, it seems unlikely that Rotherham’s pursuit will be a success. Steve Evans isn’t used to not getting what he wants – he’s already made seven signings, including Sean Raggett and Joe Rafferty from Portsmouth. Rotherham will be hoping to bounce back swiftly – they’ve been promoted from League One four times since 2013 and have only spent consecutive seasons in the division once since 1997.

Williams is looking for his next challenge after spending six seasons at Oakwell. He made 201 appearances and scored nine times during his time with the Tykes, winning promotion from League One in 2018-19. Relegation followed in 2021, and he was released from his contract this summer as new boss Darrell Clarke plans a rebuild.

Barnsley have already started their rebuild for next season, capturing midfielder Conor Hourihane from Derby County. A former Tyke, he was released by the Rams as they earned promotion to the second tier at the end of last season.

Writer’s View

One thing has to be said for Evans – he makes a lot of signings, and some fall by the wayside. Some do well, obviously, but why would a player take that risk?

Given that the two clubs in the Championship are both bigger in terms of stature and position, it seems clear Williams will make the step up. Evans won’t get his man this time, but rest assured, he’ll have a list of players he wants and won’t lose sleep over missing out on one.

Pompey would seem a good fit. John Mousinho’s team is on an upward trajectory, and it feels like there’s an element of the Ipswich about them. They could surprise a few next season, especially with shrewd acquisitions such as Williams.

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