Millwall have reportedly negotiated an ‘option to buy’ clause as part of their loan deal for Jamie Shackleton, according to the South London Press . The 22-year-old joined Gary Rowett’s side on a temporary deal during the week, joining fellow Leeds United loanee Charlie Cresswell down south.
A decision to move Shackleton on temporarily was made following the summer signings of the likes of Rasmus Kristensen, Tyler Adams and Marc Roca combined with the rise in prominence of Cody Drameh and Archie Gray - strengthening both right-back and central midfield considerably.
The academy graduate featured in the opening friendly against Blackpool but was left out of Marsch’s 26-man squad that flew to Australia, instead remaining in the UK to sort out his own future. That future will be at the Den, and although the current deal is temporary, the Lions have a clause inserted that will allow them so sign Shackleton permanently next summer if they wish.
READ MORE: Leeds United player ratings from Crystal Palace draw
The value of the option is unknown but - like Tyler Roberts at Queens Park Rangers - the option to sell permanently indicates that Shackleton is no longer a part of Leeds’ long-term plans. Charlie Cresswell’s loan deal does not have the same option to buy clause inserted.
A move to Millwall might give Shackleton - often a victim of his own versatility - a chance to specialise in his preferred midfield role. Lions boss Rowett admitted to the South London Press that he is likely to use the Whites man in midfield.
“He’s played as a holding midfielder, an advanced midfielder, as a number 10, right wing-back and right-back.” He said. “His preference is to play somewhere central, rather than wing-back or full-back.
“I’ve got a bit of an idea where I see him featuring for us and I think it is one of those central positions in the middle of the pitch. He’s coming in as more of a midfield option than a wing-back option. His flexibility will be important to us.”
Despite being only 22, Shackleton has been a major part of the Leeds squad since 2018 and the arrival of Marcelo Bielsa. His energy made him a perfect utility player for the Argentinian boss during two gruelling Championship campaigns, but promotion to the Premier League and the subsequent change in manager saw the local lad’s minutes dwindle.
He made just seven league starts last season and did not start since the 7-0 defeat to Manchester City. Despite being bitter rivals, Leeds fans will have a vested interest in Millwall’s fortunes next season, with both Shackleton and Cresswell likely to feature regularly. But whereas the centre-back’s return to Elland Road is all but guaranteed, the future for Shackleton is not so clear.
READ NEXT
Leeds United transfer news LIVE: Jack Harrison latest plus updates on striker and left-back searches
Leeds United confirm three changes for Crystal Palace clash and one full debut
Leeds United headlines as Martin Terrier makes 'flattering' claim and inside Archie Gray talks
Leeds United Australia diary day 10: Perth Zoo, driving rain and bouncing breweries
