The Star broke news of Sheffield Wednesday’s pursuit of ex-Millwall midfielder Billy Mitchell on Thursday evening.

Sheffield Wednesday are pushing on with the signing of holding midfielder Billy Mitchell after positive talks over his free transfer addition in the last week, The Star understands.

The 25-year-old Londoner has spent his entire career with Millwall, who were keen on keeping hold of him as his contract ended at the turn of the month. The Star understands that while a deal is not complete as of yet, there is a growing confidence that Wednesday have got their man. Barring any late and unexpected hitches, a deal is expected to keep moving forward in the coming days. An ideal world would see a deal completed in time for Sunday’s departure to a training camp in Hungary.

Reports down south suggest Millwall lodged three contract offers to Mitchell, who featured 30 times in a side that made the Championship play-offs last time out and has made 196 appearances for the Lions since making his debut in 2019. Over the last weeks there has been reported interest in the midfielder from Watford and clubs in Scotland.

Should a deal complete, Mitchell would be in line to become the ninth addition of Wednesday’s busy transfer window, with a great deal of work still to be done as they prepare for their fresh start in League One. Owls sporting director Simon Wilson has spoken about the fact that Wednesday’s business will likely go ‘to the wire’ in terms of the window’s September 1 deadline, with many clubs preferring to do their business late, particularly on loan deals.

The signing of the midfielder would bring further strength to that area of the pitch, with Callum Slattery and the return of Barry Bannan currently the out-and-out midfield additions in what is a major squad rebuild. Mitchell has played 184 times at Championship level.