Joe Powell looks set to feature in League Two next season, but not with Rotherham United, despite the club holding conversations over the midfielder potentially staying on in South Yorkshire following the Millers’ relegation into League Two.
Now, according to reports from Pete O’Rourke, the 27-year-old midfielder will be leaving the club with a deal set to be confirmed as soon as possible. Powell first joined the club in June 2024, making over 90 appearances and tallying 15 assists in that time.
Joe Powell Leaves Rotherham United
Reportedly, Salford City have won the race for the midfielder. This comes as a surprise, given that the Ammies recently dismissed Karl Robinson following their humiliation at Wembley, courtesy of Notts County in the League Two play-off final.
The deal is a free transfer, after the midfielder was in conversations over potentially extending his stay in South Yorkshire under Steve McClaren.
Rotherham appear to have a major rebuild on their hands as they prepare to feature in League Two for the first time in over a decade, after a truly dismal three years for Millers fans. Powell has been a mainstay in their midfield since joining from Burton two years ago, also proving able to operate in multiple positions across the field.
Powell was a key operator for the Millers despite the club’s hard times of late. And while there were criticisms of the 27-year-old amid the club’s toothless relegation, he would no doubt have been a key asset in the Millers’ 2026-27 campaign.
Salford City Snatch Powell’s Signature
As for the Ammies, this is an astute addition. The midfielder brings a great depth of quality and versatility to an already impressive midfield, which features the likes of Jorge Grant, Matt Butcher, and Josh Austerfield.
Salford pushed the boat out for promotion last season and just missed out. Signing Ryan Graydon for a reported £400,000 fee from Fleetwood Town in January, Karl Robinson looked set to deliver the Greater Manchester side into League One.
Kept out of the final automatic promotion spot on the final day after a frustrating 0-0 draw at Crawley Town, they appeared to have picked themselves up after emerging victorious in a closely contested two-legged play-off against Grimsby Town.
It was not to be in the end, but their ambitions have not stopped there. Powell has been a mainstay in League One for both Burton Albion and Rotherham United for the last six years, and has been adept in multiple roles – he is sure to be a vital signing for whoever their next manager may be.
