Millwall attacker Zian Flemming has admitted that he could leave the club this summer in search of football at a higher level.
The Lions paid a club record £1.7 million for his services from Dutch outfit Fortuna Sittard in 2022. That fee was repaid in dividends after an excellent first season at The Den, where he scored 15 goals in 43 appearances.
His form caught the attention of Burnley, who were keen to acquire the 25-year-old as they prepared for life in the Premier League. Both the club and the player resisted their advances though, and he remained in the capital.
It’s been a disappointing campaign for Millwall, who are still battling survival. They currently sit just four points above the drop zone in 18th, although their excellent 1-0 win over table-toppers Leicester City on Tuesday night did ease those relegation fears somewhat.
Flemming has once again been one of the standout performers this season, despite having to contend with the merry-go-round of managers. Having played in all positions across the attacking line, he has pitched in eight goals and four assists in all competitions. This is likely to draw further interest in the summer.
The former Ajax youngster signed a long-term contract upon joining two years ago and would generate serious profit from their initial outlay. There’s a possibility that his time with Neil Harris’ team is coming to an end, with Flemming admitting that he wants to play at a higher level. Speaking to Dutch media outlet Soccer News via Sport Witness, he said:
“I want to play as high as possible, that won’t surprise anyone. Our common goal is to get promoted to the Premier League with Millwall. Unfortunately, we did not succeed last year and the same goes for this year.
“Plan B is then to make a move myself, but then the club must also get a nice transfer fee. Whether that will be this summer or later, I don’t dare say at this stage.”
Millwall host Cardiff City this afternoon before the long trip to the Stadium of Light to face Sunderland next weekend.
Writer’s View
Flemming has been one of Millwall’s better signings of the past few years and it would be no surprise to see him move on this summer. Burnley could well come back in but whether he is willing to remain in the Championship is another question altogether.
It seems as if his ambition is to play in the Premier League and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him end up at one of next season’s newly promoted teams. However, a transfer back to the Netherlands could also be an option. Either way, the Lions could receive a hefty sum to boost their coffers.
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