The latest on Rotherham United's hunt for a new striker

ROTHERHAM United's January pursuit of a new striker is poised to extend into next week, manager Paul Warne has revealed.
Paul WarnePaul Warne
Paul Warne

The Millers have identified the player they would like to sign before the transfer window closes at the end of the month.

But their target won't be allowed to move until his present club have brought in a replacement.

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"We do need someone else who brings us a bit of quality," Warne said after Saturday's 1-0 Championship defeat at Ipswich left Rotherham two points and a place above the drop zone. "You win and lose by what you do in both boxes. 

"The one I really want, I don't think I can get him in the next 10 days. I need to go and meet him as well. I spoke to his manager on Friday night and the potential is if that manager gets one in then he'll let me have the player I want. 

"Whether he gets one in, I don't know. There are other targets to go for but I'm very selective in who I want to bring in."

The Millers began their January recruitment late last week by signing 6ft 4in midfielder Matt Crooks for an undisclosed fee from League Two Northampton Town.

Matt Crooks

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A forward and a wide man are also on the wanted list of Warne who appreciates supporters are keen to see fresh faces as soon as possible.

The Ipswich squad that were lucky to hang on for a 1-0 win last weekend contained five new boys.

"I understand how fans get frustrated," the boss said. "They always love to talk about recruitment. But it can be a long process. 

"I can't afford to get many wrong. I'll get some wrong, I know that. Everyone we sign has to come with the intention of playing and making us better. 

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"Recruitment can be hard. Everyone is going for the same players, everyone is fghting and there seems to be less and less players. You have to be a little bit patient."

Although a forward is Rotherham's top target, there is no threat to Michael Smith who has been a key man all season in his lone-striker role.

"We're trying to add another attacking option," Warne said. "Ideally it will be someone who can play across the frontline in any position because Smithy is virtually irreplaceable."