Millwall have made a powerful statement of intent ahead of the new Championship season by completing the signing of Josh Coburn in a deal worth up to £5million, including add-ons.
The transfer eclipses their previous record—believed to be £3.5m for Camiel Neghli—and signals manager Alex Neil’s ambition to reshape his squad for a serious top-six push.
Coburn Made Millwall Impression
Coburn made a strong impression during his time at The Den last term, scoring five goals in 20 league outings despite a campaign disrupted by injuries. The Lions had hoped to make the move permanent last summer but had to settle for a loan. With discussions reignited in January, they have now finally secured the Middlesbrough academy graduate on a full-time basis.
The frontman’s arrival comes amid a flurry of activity in SE16. Millwall have already landed goalkeeper Max Crocombe on a permanent basis and are close to finalising a deal for Chelsea left-back Zak Sturge, who also featured on loan last season. Central midfield remains a priority, as does cover between the sticks, with first-choice Lukas Jensen expected to miss a significant portion of 2025/26 due to an Achilles injury.
Coburn’s move also benefits his former club. New Middlesbrough head coach Rob Edwards will receive the funds raised from the sale to help rebuild his squad, with Boro aiming to return to the promotion picture following a mixed campaign.
The transfer further underlines Millwall’s shift in strategy under Neil, who is looking to inject more youth and pace into his side. Signing a 22-year-old with proven Championship experience on a long-term deal reflects a wider shift away from stop-gap loan players and short-term thinking.
Writer’s View
This is a major coup for Millwall—and not just financially. Josh Coburn’s permanent arrival ends a long-running pursuit and finally gives the Lions a mobile, powerful centre-forward to build around. The £5m outlay signals a club willing to back its manager and compete at the top end of the division, even with parachute-funded sides circling.
Injuries hampered Coburn last season, but when fit, he showed exactly why Millwall were so persistent. In a market where young, homegrown strikers carry a premium, this could turn out to be smart business both on the pitch and in the books.
