ROTHERHAM United striker Sam Nombe's move to MK Dons was a protracted one - before both clubs finally settled on a deal.

Regarding talks with the 27-year-old about a switch to his former club, they were exceedingly easy according to MK chief and former Millers manager Paul Warne.

On Nombe, who came through the youth ranks at the Buckinghamshire club before graduating to the first-team ahead of leaving in 2021, Warne said: "It was one of the easiest negotiations I’ve ever done with a player as his heart was set on coming back to the city to play for this great club.

"Sam is a forward I’ve always liked who doesn’t give a moment’s peace to the opposition’s back line.

Rotherham United striker Sam Nombe, who has joined MK Dons. Picture: Jonathan Gawthorpe

placeholder image — Rotherham United striker Sam Nombe, who has joined MK Dons. Picture: Jonathan Gawthorpe

"He thrives off crosses which I like my team to excel at.

"He’s physical, confident and has consistently scored goals at this level.

"His work rate for the team is also to be applauded. He improves a very strong department of our squad."

Millers club record £1m signing Nombe's departure for an undisclosed fee is expected to be the catalyst to renewed transfer activity in an incoming direction at Rotherham.

FLEETWOOD, ENGLAND - MAY 02: Paul Warne, Manager of Milton Keynes Dons applauds the fans during the Sky Bet League Two match between Fleetwood Town and Milton Keynes Dons at Highbury Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Fleetwood, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

Asked last weekend whether the situation regarding Nombe had been slowing down transfer process, boss Alex Bruce acknowledged: "Yes, a little bit. (But) We have to wait for a bid to be right."

Proceeds from the sale of Nombe, who joined from Exeter City in August 2023 and had just entered the final year of contract, have been earmarked for use in sanctioning several new signings, with the Millers having much work to do after bringing in just four new recruits to barely supplement a numbers-ravaged squad.

Nombe – top-scorer for the past two seasons – had not been involved in any of the club’s pre-season fixtures in order to protect him from injury.

So far this summer, the Millers have brought in Aaron Nemane, Ossama Ashley, Jamie Jellis and Fabio Tavares, but there remain a number of gaping holes to fill across the club’s playing squad with a raft of players leaving in the aftermath of the club’s relegation to the fourth tier last term.