Millwall close to losing their star youth player to Premier League side

Millwall looks set to lose one of their brightest young players to a London rival. The club reportedly faces losing one of its star youngsters to the Premier League as they continue preparations for the new season. After a late surge up the table last term following a relegation scare, the Lions are aiming for at least a top-half finish this season.

Neil Harris, preparing for his first full season back at the club, has already secured several quality signings, including Japhet Tanganga, Macaulay Langstaff, and Lukas Jensen. More arrivals are expected before the start of the new season, but there could also be departures, following the exit of Alex Mitchell to Charlton Athletic.

Young talent Josh Stephenson could be lured away by Premier League club Brentford, according to BBC journalist Nazaar Kinsella. The Bees are reportedly closing in on a five-year deal for the centre-back. Stephenson, the captain of Millwall’s under-18s, led his team to the Professional Development League Cup title last season and the FA Youth Cup semi-finals.

Recognized as a technically gifted centre-back who can also play in midfield, Stephenson has attracted interest from several clubs this summer. While the exact fee Brentford will pay is unclear, a deal is said to be close, with training compensation also included as part of the agreement.

Millwall boss Neil Harris addressed the interest in Josh Stephenson in an interview with the South London Press in May. “The game has changed over the last five to ten years,” he said. “Premier League clubs now are intent on buying young players.

“We had interest in our young players. That will always be the case at Millwall because we have some excellent players coming through our system. Josh is no different to that. What we will be very honest with as a football club, is that we will only sell any player at the right value where we feel we can get the right deal.

“If we don’t get the right offer, then it will go to a tribunal. If it has to be decided by that, then so be it by us. Josh is one that we really want to work with moving forward. But if any player wants to move on to pastures new, then we will make sure we will protect the football club.”

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