Rotherham United: Bradshaw boss accepts hot-shot could leave

The manager of reported Rotherham United target Tom Bradshaw admits he could face a losing battle in his attempt to hang on to his star striker.
Tom BradshawTom Bradshaw
Tom Bradshaw

The Millers are thought to be one of a clutch of Championship clubs interested in the 23-year-old hitman who has scored 20 goals in each of his two seasons with League One Walsall.

Saddlers boss Jon Whitney said: “I will do my best to keep him, but I also realise things happen in football.

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“I have to be adaptable and fluid and I need to be ready for change if it comes.

“If it does come, I will have something in place.”

There has been speculation Rotherham have already made bids, but this is unconfirmed.

Birmingham City, Preston North End and Barnsley are believed to be admirers of the Welsh international, with the newly-promoted Reds having had two offers rejected.

Walsall are thought to want around £900,000 for Bradshaw and Barnsley manager Paul Heckingbottom says the two clubs are “miles apart” on valuation.

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New Rotherham boss Alan Stubbs is in the market for a centre-forward after allowing Matt Derbyshire and Leon Best to leave.

Millwall’s Lee Gregory, who hit 27 goals in 53 matches for the League One Londoners, is also thought to be on the Millers’ radar.

Bradshaw is four years younger than Gregory and fits the criteria of Stubbs who is keen on young talent that can be developed and turned into a major asset worth big money to the Millers.

Whitney added: “What I want doesn’t always happen. I’m hopeful that he will stay.

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“But I also understand there are a lot of variables and external influences that can affect that.”

Former Rotherham striker Jordan Bowery, freed by Oxford United at the end of last season, has signed a two-year deal with League Two Leyton Orient.