Jake Cooper has emerged as a possible target for Leeds United, Rangers and West Brom – and now, Millwall manager Gary Rowett has discussed his centre-back’s future and the hope he signs a new deal.
Cooper, 28, is in the final year of his contract at London side Millwall. It comes after six and a half years at The Den, in which he has clocked up an enormous 303 games in both league and cup for The Lions.
The South London Press claims Leeds are among the admirers considering a move to sign Cooper. We could rival Rangers and Carlos Corberan’s West Brom, who we welcome to Elland Road on Friday night.
Millwall boss Rowett was asked about interest in Cooper and said he is confident that the Millwall man will sign a new deal at The Den. But he is aware that there is speculation and interest in his defender.
“We want Coops to sign a new deal,” Rowett told the South London Press, when asked about Cooper. “It is well-documented that he has got a year left and there has been quite a lot of speculation out there.
“But as far as we’re concerned, our focus is on him signing a new deal. At this moment in time we are still in those discussions and we’re hoping it is something we can conclude,” Millwall boss Rowett added.
Cooper a Leeds target: Rowett hopes he signs new Millwall deal
Leeds do have options in the middle of the defence but Liam Cooper’s injury has left us with just Pascal Struijk, Charlie Cresswell and new signing Joe Rodon. Cooper adds some much-needed experience.
Not only is he good in the air, excellent in the Championship and a leader – but Cooper has an impact in the final third, having a hand in 39 goals. He has scored 17 goals himself, while also laying on 22 assists.
It is unclear what Cooper’s stance is – whether he wants to stay, or whether he is keen on a move. The answer to that will emerge over the next two, three weeks. As things stand, his deal ends next summer.
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