Barry Bannan 'could leave' Sheffield Wednesday as Millwall, Stoke City, Preston North End and Motherwell linked
Barry Bannan could reportedly leave Sheffield Wednesday this month amid interest from the likes of Millwall, Stoke City and Preston North End.
The 36-year-old has been on the books at Hillsborough for over a decade and is adored by the club’s supporters.
A talismanic captain, he has made 474 appearances for the Owls since his move from Crystal Palace back in August 2015.
Amid off-field turbulence in S6, there was talk of Bannan moving on in the summer window. He instead penned a new contract, although reports of a potential move have resurfaced.
Barry Bannan admirers named
According to Sky Sports, Championship trio Millwall, Stoke and Preston are interested in signing the veteran midfielder.
Writing on the Sky Sports transfer centre live blog, reporter Keith Downie said: “Barry Bannan could leave Sheffield Wednesday this month after a decade at the club. Millwall, Stoke, Preston and two Scottish clubs are interested in signing the 36-year-old.
“The Owls’ captain’s contract is up at the end of the season, but there’s growing belief he could leave this window, after nearly 500 appearances for Wednesday.”
The Star have identified Motherwell as one of the Scottish clubs keen on the long-serving Owls star.
Barry Bannan’s Sheffield Wednesday future in doubt
Losing Bannan would be a bitter blow for Wednesday, who are already operating with a stretched squad.
The emotional weight on supporters would be heavy, although the Scotland-capped midfielder could be forgiven for wanting to compete higher up the Championship in the twilight of his career.
After committing to a new contract in the summer, Bannan conceded he had thought about seeking pastures new.
He said: "In the last week my head's been everywhere. The weeks before that I'd been getting on with it but last week was really tough because there was interest.
"Before last week I'd never thought of going anywhere. This was the only time I thought I might have to have a look at it.
"At the training ground there's a lot of people that need picking up and I think I'm the person that can really help. I don't think I could live with myself if I walked out on those people."