Dan Barlaser back on Rotherham United’s radar as Paul Warne targets three

So far this close season the Millers have brought in six players, but are keen on bringing in another midfielder, winger and an additional forward.

Warne is awaiting developments in his long-standing pursuit of Newcastle United schemer Dan Barlaser.

He said: “It is a bit strange this week. A lot of clubs want to sign players, but have to release players because the 25-man squad issue is causing a lot of problems at a lot of clubs.

“I think in the last week, there will be a lot of last-minute moves, loans, transfers and everything but at the moment it is still reasonably quiet. Even my phone is quiet, it has dropped off with agents.”

On the added difficulty of signing attacking players, he continued: “They are the most difficult really. Everyone is chasing the same amount of players and if an agent ever texts you and says: ‘Are you looking for anything else’, you do not say: ‘I would not mind a third-choice left-back’.

“Whereas another attacking option would always be good. Everyone has the shop they shop in and specific player (attributes) and with what I want from players, it makes them ever more unique.

“Realistically for what I want, there is probably only two or three players who suit everything.”

In terms of midfield options, Barlaser is one who ticks the boxes that Warne requires.

The 23-year-old enjoyed an excellent loan spell last term before returning to his parent club, with the Millers keen on bringing him back.

The Gateshead-born player has impressed in pre-season for Newcastle, but with a year left on his deal on Tyneside, it remains to be seen if he has a long-term future at St James’ Park.

On reports linking the Millers with a renewed move for Barlaser, Warne said: “You would be very surprised to know I do like Dan Barlaser...But as we speak at the moment, he is still a Newcastle player.

“I am led to believe he is competing to be in the squad this weekend, so until I know anything different, we cannot proceed with anything.

“Even if we did bid for him, I presume there would be a line of people bidding for him and I do not know if we would be at the front. I have not spoken to Dan, I have not spoken to his agent, I am just watching this space.”

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James Mitchinson