Round-up: Rotherham United tap into Sheffield United links, Sheffield Wednesday line up striker, Hull City exit
ROTHERHAM United have utilised their relationship with Sheffield United to sign another young defender on loan after bringing in defender Jili Buyabu for the 2026-27 season.
The 22-year-old wingback has joined on a season-long loan and follows the path of Jamal Baptiste and Femi Seriki in recent seasons in terms of heading across the Tinsley Viaduct to aid his development.
London-born Buyabu – who spent last season on loan at National League promotion chasers Forest Green – has become the club’s fifth new arrival of the summer window following the previous acquisitions of Aaron Nemane, Ossama Ashley, Jamie Jellis and Fabio Tavares.
He made 37 appearances for Rovers last term, scoring seven goals.
Leeds United remained in the process of finalising a big-money deal for Manchester City keeper James Trafford as The Yorkshire Post went to press last night.
The move for the England international is worth a guaranteed £40million fee plus bonuses and would see the 23-year-old become Leeds’ record signing, with the fee topping the £35.5m forked out for Georginio Rutter in January 2023.
Meanwhile, Sheffield Wednesday are close to completing a loan move for Hull City striker Mason Burstow, who is surplus to requirements after spending last season at Bolton Wanderers.
Tigers’ back-up goalkeeper Harvey Cartwright has rejoined hometown club Grimsby Town on a season-long loan.
The 24-year-old spent the 2023-24 season with the Mariners and can also boast loan spells with Peterborough United, Wycombe Wanderers and Hartlepool United.
Harrogate Town winger Reece Smith has become the latest player to make a quick-fire return to the EFL after joining League Two outfit Walsall for an undisclosed fee.
Smith was one of the club’s stand-out performers in a tough season, team wise, for the Sulphurites in 2025-26, which culminated in their return to the National League after six seasons as a Football League club.
Smith’s exit follows on from influential midfielder Jack Evans’ move to Notts County, while key defender Chanse Headman has linked up with Bromley.