Rotherham United's Dan Barlaser on the verge of Middlesbrough move

The Millers had rejected the advances of their Championship rivals up until this week.

But yesterday's loan signing of Conor Coventry from West Ham United has given them extra strength in the centre of the pitch and they now look ready to do business.

The player, who is from Gateshead, is believed to want the transfer which would see him move to a bigger club and increase his wages.

He also likes the idea of moving closer to his family and working under Boro boss Michael Carrick who was a midfielder in the same mould during his playing days with West Ham, Spurs, Manchester United and England.

Two weeks ago, Rotherham boss Matt Taylor confirmed to The Advertiser that Boro had submitted an offer but said it was below the £900,000 figure being reported.

The Teessiders have made another approach and the Millers realise that this is their final chance to cash in on the 26-year-old who could leave for free in the summer if he saw out the last few months of his deal at AESSEAL New York Stadium.

The window closes at 11pm on Tuesday.

Following a successful loan spell, Barlaser was bought by Rotherham in 2020 from Newcastle United who had a 40 per cent sell-on clause inserted in the contract.

He has made more than 150 appearances for the Millers and has become a huge favourite with fans who have nicknamed him 'The Geordie Pirlo'.

This season, he has started every second-tier match, scoring twice and providing seven assists.