Barnsley closing in on Chelsea rookie

Mellis, now 20, started his career at Sheffield United but had not played first-team football prior to joining the Londoners three years ago for an undisclosed fee.

He spent four months on loan at Southampton last season before making his Chelsea debut two months ago as a substitute in a Champions League tie against Slovakian side Zilina

The Nottingham-born player will not be involved in tonight's trip to Millwall but could make his debut in Tuesday night's game against Preston North End at Oakwell.

Striker Jeronimo Morales Neumann, meanwhile, has been released by the Tykes less than six months after arriving in English football.

The Argentinian, 24, signed a one-year deal from Estudiantes but made only five substitute appearances.

Manager Mark Robins said: "Unfortunately, he has not reached the standard that was needed but there are no hard feelings and we wish him all the best."

The Tykes have been charged with misconduct by the Football Association over comments written in a match report on the club's official website.

Club press officer Rob Knowles, writing about the Championship game with Hull City two weeks ago, allegedly questioned the integrity of the match officials.

Last six games: Millwall DWWDWL, Barnsley LDWLDW

Last time: Millwall 3 Barnsley 1; September 18, 2001, Championship.

Referee: GD Scott (Oxfordshire).