Millwall have made their first move on transfer deadline day, securing the signing of Brighton & Hove Albion winger Benicio Baker-Boaitey on a long-term contract.
The 21-year-old becomes the club’s sixth signing of the January window and will immediately link up with Alex Neil’s first-team squad.
Millwall Welcome Baker-Boaitey
Having spent the first half of the season on loan at Port Vale, where he made 14 appearances in League Two, Baker-Boaitey is now set for a step up to the Championship.
Millwall’s director of football, Steve Gallen, expressed his excitement over the signing.
“We’re delighted to welcome Benicio Baker to Millwall – we see him as an exciting prospect for the club. Another England youth international, Benicio ticks a number of boxes we’re looking to recruit for at his young age of 21. He is an exciting winger who will add plenty of pace and skill to the squad, which will get fans off their seats.”
Career Progression: From West Ham to Millwall
Baker-Boaitey began his career in West Ham United’s academy but opted to reject a professional contract in 2020 to sign for FC Porto, despite interest from Bayern Munich and Borussia Mönchengladbach.
His move to Brighton & Hove Albion initially came on a six-month loan deal in January 2022, before becoming permanent that summer. He quickly impressed in the Seagulls’ youth setup and made his senior debut in December 2023, coming on as a substitute in a 3–2 defeat to Chelsea.
Following six senior appearances under manager Roberto De Zerbi, Baker-Boaitey was loaned to Port Vale at the start of the 2024/25 season, where he was named in the EFL League Two Team of the Week in September before suffering a pelvic injury in December.
Despite this setback, he was recalled to Brighton in early January, with Darren Moore praising him as a “real game changer when on his game.”
Millwall’s January Business
Baker-Boaitey is Millwall’s sixth signing of the transfer window as the club looks to strengthen for the second half of the season.
With the Lions currently pushing for a strong finish in the Championship, the addition of a pacey winger could provide Alex Neil’s side with an extra attacking edge.
Writer’s View
Millwall’s capture of Baker-Boaitey is a smart move, adding a young, technically gifted player who has already gained experience in both the Premier League and EFL. His time at Port Vale showed flashes of his ability, and if he can settle quickly in the Championship, he could become a key asset for Alex Neil’s side.
