Rotherham United are poised to strike a loan deal to sign Brentford goalkeeper and American youth international Julian Eyestone.
The Millers have been scrambling to find new squad members ahead of the season, after having to battle through pre-season with a squad made up of trialists, youth players and a limited selection of senior players under contract.
Eyestone Set For Debut Loan Spell
Positive progress has been made to supply new Rotherham boss Alex Bruce with some options heading into the League Two opening day bow against Cheltenham Town this weekend, with former Dunfermline Athletic duo Kieran Ngwenya and Ewan Otoo arriving as free agents ahead of their loss to West Bromwich Albion.
Now, according to the Rotherham Advertiser, they are set to add to that with a deal to sign 20-year-old Julian Eyestone, who is set to be handed his first loan spell away from parent club Brentford.
Joining the Bees in 2024 from North Texas SC, the 6ft 6in-tall goalie has progressed through their ranks and is now set to be rewarded with a stint in the EFL, with the Millers set to bring him in as competition for Ted Cann.
He is yet to make a senior appearance for the Bees, but has appeared in their matchday squads under Keith Andrews, including against Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup third round last season.
The 25-year-old had seemingly been promoted to first choice under Bruce following the exit of Cameron Dawson, who was the preferred option by Matt Hamshaw until a February defeat to local rivals Doncaster Rovers.
Competition Set To Begin
Having only recently claimed the right to play between the sticks at Rotherham United, it seems that Ted Cann will now have a battle on his hands to retain his place under Alex Bruce this season.
The signing of Julian Eyestone is, of course, a massive boost and a much-needed addition to their squad depth at a time the Millers need as many capable options as they can, but now leaves the new boss with a dilemma as to who is his preferred option.
His time at Salford City may offer a possible hint as to the direction he could go, with Sunderland youngster Matty Young coming in and ousting existing first choice Jamie Jones after half a season at Moor Lane, and soon established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in League Two.
So while Cann should be confident in holding onto his spot for the opening stages of the season, he may face a much harder task to retain his status as the season wears on with Brentford hoping to see their youngster pick up vital experience.
