Millwall boss Gary Rowett has admitted continued speculation linking Jed Wallace with a move to Nottingham Forest “hasn’t been particularly helpful”.
Forest have had several bids for Wallace rejected this month, the latest worth a reported £1.25million for the winger who is out of contract at the end of the season.
Fresh reports emerged this morning (Monday) that the Reds were ready to make a final, improved bid for the former Wolves and Portsmouth man ahead of tonight's transfer deadline.
Rowett has conceded the talk surrounding Wallace’s future has been felt by his squad.
“The Jed [Wallace] situation has rumbled on for three or four weeks, which hasn’t been particularly helpful – because the speculation does affect the group,” said the former Derby County boss, reported London News Online today.
“That isn’t Jed’s fault, but it does affect the group. We’ve wanted to keep Jed here.”
Despite his contract status, and an injury which has kept him out of action since last month, Rowett is determined to keep Wallace.
And he has praised Millwall owner John Berylson for, so far, fending off Forest’s interest in one of his key players.
“We want to keep our best players at the club – that’s been our stance all the way along. What happens long term, happens long term,” said Rowett.
“It is brilliant of John, rather than just cash in on anyone who is out of contract he is prepared to essentially lose money to make the team as healthy as he can.”
