Millwall defender in 'advanced' Sheffield United talks as Leicester City send Lions enquiry - round-up

Sheffield United are ‘advancing in talks’ to sign in-demand Millwall centre-back Japhet Tanganga before the close of the summer transfer window after a dismal start to the 2025/26 campaign for the Blades.

Ruben Selles’ side have lost three on the bounce since the start of the campaign, being defeated by Swansea, Birmingham City and Bristol City. Over those fixtures, the Blades have conceded seven goals in a worrying run of form.

The second tier outfit now appear to be turning their attention to strengthening at the back and have locked in on Lions star Tanganga. The former Tottenham Hotspur man had been linked with a move to the Premier League earlier in the window.

Sheffield United target Millwall defender

Crystal Palace, Sunderland, Leeds United and Wolves were all said to be considering a swoop for Tanganga, who has top flight experience thanks to his time in north London. European outfits were also touted as potential suitors.

News of a £1.2 million release clause in the player’s contract had emerged this summer but, as of yet, had not been activated. It’s understood that Sheffield United would not be able to benefit from that clause and would have to pay a higher fee to bring Tanganga to Bramall Lane.

Journalist Dan Marsh wrote on social media platform X: “Sheffield United advancing in talks to sign Japhet Tanganga from #Millwall. 26yo defender has been a long-term #TwitterBlades target + would cost a substantial fee as release clause doesn't apply to divisional rivals. Talks ongoing.”

Lions face fight as Leicester City enquire over Mihailo Ivanovic

Meanwhile, Millwall also face a fight to keep hold of talented striker Mihailo Ivanovic. The 20-year-old only arrived in the Championship last summer but an impressive debut campaign had led to links with Premier League sides Everton and Wolves.

Nothing came of those reports but that doesn’t appear to mean the transfer saga is over. Championship rivals Leicester City are now said to be courting the player as Marti Cifuentes is tasked with taking the Foxes straight back to the top flight.

Football Insider report that Leicester City have made an enquiry over the availability of Ivanovic, as they prepare to see Bilal El Khannouss leave the King Power Stadium. If Alex Neil’s comments last month are anything to go by, Millwall will be reluctant to see the player leave.

He told Southwark News: “I know there’s a lot of speculation, as there always is, whether it be with Japhet or whether it be with Mihailo or whether it be with anybody else.

“We are not actively looking to try and sell anyone. We want to try and retain the squad, and we want to try and grow and build and be good this season. Equally, if somebody comes in with offers that are way beyond what we would maybe have as an evaluation of a player, then certain decisions may well get made.

“What I will tell you is we have no ambitions or certainly no effort is going into trying to move any of our players. We want to keep them here. We like them. We think they’ve got real growth in terms of them individually, but also us as a team. And we want to try and make sure this year is a good year for us.”

In other news, Millwall confirm injury blow in potential Sheffield United and Coventry City boost.