Millwall defender Josh Stephenson is set to complete his move to Brentford after captaining the Lions’ under-18 side to success last season.
The versatile youngster was a standout performer as Millwall’s academy team won the Professional Development League Cup and reached the semi-finals of the FA Youth Cup, where Leeds United knocked them out.
Brentford had agreed a deal for the highly-rated defender back in July, but the move was delayed due to a back injury that Stephenson was recovering from. With paperwork now completed, the transfer is expected to be confirmed by the Bees this week. Stephenson will initially join Brentford’s B team as he looks to build on his impressive performances in Millwall’s academy.
Millwall had offered Stephenson a contract to stay at the club, but the 18-year-old opted for a move to the Premier League side. His departure follows a trend for the Lions, who have seen several of their young talents snapped up by top-flight clubs in recent seasons. The likes of Darko Gyabi and Samuel Edozie both moved to Manchester City, while Zak Lovelace joined Glasgow Rangers.
Millwall manager Neil Harris, while not directly referencing Stephenson, spoke about young players potentially having their heads turned by other clubs when discussing the recent contract extension of academy graduate Alfie Massey. Harris praised Massey for committing his future to the club and used his decision as an example for other young players.
“He knows his pathways with us,” Harris said of Massey. “What we wanted to do as a football club is reward that and show that pathway, not just to him but to the other lads. We’ve had contractual issues over the summer where maybe some lads thought the grass was greener on the other side. Well more fool you – look at Alfie Massey.
“I gave him his opportunity, as I promised the young lads would get their opportunity when they deserve it. He has took it and signed a new three-year contract for the football club.”
Millwall have had a mixed start to the 2024/25 Championship season under former Cambridge boss Harris. After a challenging 3-2 opening defeat to Watford, the Lions have bounced back a little recently, with a 3-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday, displaying a glimpse of their potential.
Site Opinion: Facing Challenges
Millwall have been keen to keep their promising young players, securing long-term deals for Massey and Romain Esse over the summer.
However, with top clubs like Brentford continuing to scout emerging talent from the Championship and beyond, Millwall face a challenge in keeping all of their academy prospects. Stephenson’s decision to join Brentford highlights the ongoing difficulty for clubs like Millwall in retaining their brightest stars amidst interest from Premier League sides.
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