It has been a hugely impressive campaign for Millwall, who ended the season in third place, just a point behind Ipswich Town in the race for automatic promotion.
The Lions pushed the Tractor Boys all the way for second spot after Coventry City secured the title, but a convincing 3-0 win over Queens Park Rangers on the final day ensured Premier League football will return to Portman Road next season.
Despite heading into the play-offs in strong form, Alex Neil’s men suffered disappointment after a 2-0 defeat to Hull City at The Den in the second leg ended their promotion hopes and confirmed another year in the Championship.
As Millwall prepare for another push for promotion, Neil faces the challenge of strengthening his squad while also holding on to key players, with interest in star winger Femi Azeez continuing to grow.
Several Millwall players impressed throughout the season, including French defender Tristan Crama, who excelled at both centre-back and right-back, while captain Jake Cooper remained a commanding presence in defence.
However, Azeez arguably stood out the most. Reports from Football Insider claim Ipswich recently submitted a new bid worth around £20 million for the Nigerian winger, though the offer was rejected.
The 24-year-old, who recently committed his international future to Nigeria after previously representing England at youth level, enjoyed a superb season at The Den. He scored 11 goals and provided eight assists in 35 Championship appearances before netting twice on his debut for the Super Eagles in a 2-0 win against Zimbabwe.
Comfortable playing on the right flank and cutting inside onto his stronger left foot, Azeez had already attracted Ipswich interest in January, when the Suffolk club attempted to sign him in a move that would have broken Millwall’s transfer record. The Lions, however, refused to sell.
Earlier reports suggested Ipswich valued the winger between £15 million and £20 million, but with Millwall rejecting the latest proposal, the club are now believed to want closer to £30 million for one of their prized assets.
Although East Anglian Daily Times journalist Stuart Robson recently suggested a move was unlikely, Ipswich now appear to have renewed their interest.
With Azeez tied to Millwall until 2028, the Championship side remain in a strong negotiating position and are under no pressure to sell unless their valuation is met. Whether Ipswich are prepared to match those demands remains unclear, but the transfer story looks set to continue throughout the summer window.
