Winger's transfer price probably 'too high' for Championship club amid Sunderland and Sheffield United links

Sunderland are already looking ahead to next season - with the summer transfer window set to open next month.

The Black Cats have been linked with a handful of players in recent weeks, including Basel winger Liam Millar, who impressed on loan at Preston during the 2023/24 season. Sheffield United and Burnley have also been credited with interest in the 24-year-old, who came through the academy at Liverpool and predominantly plays on the left flank, where he can cut inside onto his stronger right foot.

To find out more we caught up with North End reporter George Hodgson from our sister title the Lancashire Post to ask about Millar’s performances and situation. 

How important was Millar for Preston this season? 

GH: “He was a real bright spark for the team, as a direct wide player with a trick up his sleeve and willingness to go at defenders. Expectation soared when Millar scored a fine solo goal on debut, against Plymouth Argyle. It didn't happen for him every game, but he was always in a game and certainly made an impact over the course of the season.”

What were his strengths and areas where he could improve? 

GH: “He's got really quick feet and can beat a man one-v-one, which is a little bit of a dying art. Millar is best receiving the ball as high up the pitch as possible, as he doesn't have explosive pace. But, there's craft and creativity in his game for sure. His end product isn't poor but can certainly improve - ball striking, decision making and cross execution.“

Do you think Preston could afford to re-sign him next season? 

GH: “North End aren't giving up but as things stand, it looks like FC Basel's asking price is too high. Millar's spell at Preston probably hasn't done them any favours in this sense, as he was an unknown entity when he arrived. No option or obligation was put into the loan deal, so it's now an auction and others can probably put bigger bids on the table than Preston.”

Could you see him signing for another Championship club? 

GH: “Yeah. He's an exciting player and still has scope to improve, at 24-years-of-age. Millar was keen to come back to England and prove himself - he's a determined and likeable character, who wants to get himself into the Premier League. By all accounts, he really enjoyed his time at Preston but he'll now be looking to make the best career move possible. North End play with wing-backs, so the opportunity to play in a front three somewhere may well appeal to Millar.”