Rotherham United manager Paul Warne has offered thoughts on the departure of defender Semi Ajayi to West Bromwich Albion, after speaking to The Star.

The 25-year-old was a hugely important player for the Millers last season, scoring an impressive eight goals from defence as the Millers were relegated to League One.

The Nigerian international has since attracted interest from a host of high-profile clubs, but it is West Bromwich Albion who have won the race for the towering centre-half.

The Baggies recently swooped to complete the signing of Ajayi, who arrives at The Hawthorns on a four-year deal and for a reported fee of £1.5m, after entering the final year of his contract at the New York Stadium.

Speaking about losing Ajayi to Albion, Warne admitted that he had mixed emotions about the key departure, saying to the Star: "He goes, from my point of view, with a heavy heart because I lose a great player and a good person, but I can understand the pull of the Championship and West Brom.

"He was in the last year of his contract, so it was understandable and good business from the club to allow him to move on."

The Millers have been active in the summer transfer window thus far, smashing their transfer record to bring in Freddie Ladapo from Plymouth Argyle as they look to return to the Championship at the first time of asking next term.

The Verdict

After a hugely impressive campaign last time out, Ajayi leaves massive shoes to fill at Rotherham, and the Baggies have got him for a bargain of a price.

He was outstanding for them last season - he was solid enough defensively, and hitting nearly double figures just adds much more value.

Then again, £1.5m is still a lot for Warne to work with as he looks to guide his side back into the second tier, and you would expect them to reinvest it well.