Millwall have begun their pursuit of Oxford United defender Ciaron Brown, as Alex Neil’s side aim to strengthen for another promotion push.

The Lions have focused on rejuvenating their midfield ranks during the opening stages of the summer transfer window, having allowed Barry Bannan to return to Sheffield Wednesday and have replaced him with moves for Bradford City’s Jenson Metcalfe and a reported £3 million move for Mathis Servais.

Brown In Sightlines

Now, it is believed that Millwall are turning their attention to recruiting in other areas of the pitch, with TEAMtalk’s Graeme Bailey revealing that Millwall have enquired about signing defender Ciaron Brown.

The Northern Ireland international was a regular for Oxford United during their relegation campaign in the Championship, playing 37 times in his fourth full season at the Kassam Stadium.

The news comes as United face a battle to hang onto their best players after it was confirmed the club have been placed under a transfer embargo, which the Yellows are aiming to have lifted in time for the January transfer window.

Alex Neil has stuck with a regular back line for much of the season, with both Tristan Crama and Jake Cooper both exceeding 46 matches in the Championship and playoffs last season, with Zak Sturge and Caleb Taylor both making frequent starts alongside that duo.

Joining Oxford from Cardiff City on a free transfer after a promising half-season loan, Brown has played just shy of 200 matches at the club and was a key part of their League One playoff triumph under Des Buckingham in 2024.

Should Millwall Make A Move?

Ciaron Brown’s signature could be the final piece of a Millwall defence that has been exceptional over the past season, and his recruitment could make them the most formidable unit in the Championship.

Brown has a clear path into the first team as a left-sided centre-back alongside Jake Cooper, and with Tristan Crama and Zak Sturge on the flanks, Neil should have four options that can comfortably see out a whole season in which they will aim for promotion.

However, the deal will have to be a very tempting offer in order to convince Oxford United to sell, with the Yellows unlikely to be able to recruit until the new year due to their transfer embargo.

With Michal Helik also tipped with an exit this summer amid links to other Championship sides, new U’s manager Aaron Ramsey may shut the door on any interest before Millwall can advance further.