Millwall Football Club is delighted to confirm the signing of Ryan Leonard from Sheffield United.

The midfielder arrives at The Den initially on loan in a move which will become a permanent transfer for a new club record undisclosed fee at the start of January 2019. Leonard has agreed a long-term contract with The Lions.

Born in Plymouth, the 26-year-old began his career with The Pilgrims, rising through the ranks and featuring for their first team before making a move to Southend United in 2011.

Leonard was an instant hit at Roots Hall - making 23 appearances in his first campaign - and went on to feature 265 times during six-and-a-half seasons with The Shrimpers, during which he helped them achieve promotion from League Two to League One. He was a team-mate of Lions boss Neil Harris and first team coach Adam Barrett while with The Shrimpers.

The central midfielder's outstanding form for Southend attracted interest from clubs in the Championship and Leonard duly signed for Sheffield United in January of this year, making 13 appearances in the second-half of 2017/18 and four at the start of the current campaign.

Leonard will not be able to feature for Millwall against Swansea City at The Den on Saturday but will be eligible after the upcoming international break.