Championship clubs are hard at work on the grass as pre-season preparations intensify and teams begin their pre-season tours. Millwall and QPR head into the new season with renewed confidence after strong finishes last season.
QPR has been proactive, making several early signings, while Millwall has also strengthened their squad by acquiring Japhet Tanganga and Macaulay Longstaff in recent days. Here is a roundup of the latest news and transfer rumors surrounding Championship clubs.
Leeds United is set to benefit financially from Max Dean’s move this summer. According to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Gent has secured a deal to sign Dean from MK Dons. Leeds retains a 50% sell-on clause, allowing them to receive £800,000 from the £1.6 million move.
Watford’s chances of signing Luton Town star Joe Taylor this summer appear slim, according to pundit Carlton Palmer. “Watford is very keen on Luton’s rising talent Joe Taylor, but Luton won’t sell Taylor, especially not to a Championship rival,” Palmer told Football League World.
“Taylor impressed during loan spells with Colchester United and Lincoln City last season, scoring 21 league goals. He made a name for himself in temporary spells away from Kenilworth Road, playing six times for Luton’s first team and featuring in the Championship play-off final victory over Coventry City at Wembley in 2023, where he scored a penalty in the shootout.”
Palmer continued, “It’s no surprise there’s interest in Taylor, but I can’t see Luton selling him. He makes good runs, presses well, has high energy, a good work rate, and his finishing ability was among the best in League One last season. I don’t think Luton will entertain selling him, especially not to rivals Watford.
Rob Edwards aims for an immediate return to the Premier League next season. Unless they receive a substantial offer, I believe they’ll keep Taylor in the Championship or possibly loan him back to League One.”
Willock shared his thoughts upon his arrival in South Wales: “I’ve been speaking to the club for a few weeks now, and they’ve convinced me with their project going forward.
I spoke to the manager, and he shared his ideas for me and the team. Cardiff City is always a difficult team to play against. I’ve faced them a few times, and I think I can offer a lot here. I like to get on the ball, make things happen, run at players, and create and score goals. Hopefully, I can do that while I’m here.”
Willock added, “I know a few players from playing against them. From my time at Arsenal, I know Aaron Ramsey. When I was a young kid, I trained with the first team. Ramsey is a top player with a great career, and I can learn from him. Over the summer, I’ve been training myself and attending a few training camps, so I’ve kept myself in good shape and can only get better from here.”
As Championship clubs gear up for the new season, the focus is on solidifying squads and making strategic moves to ensure competitive performances. With new signings and transfer speculations, the upcoming season promises to be exciting and challenging for all involved.
