Jili Buyabu: England-DR Congo left-back joins Rotherham on loan from Sheffield United U21s

Rotherham have signed England-DR Congo left-back Jili Buyabu on loan from Sheffield United’s Under-21 side. The 22-year-old switches to the League Two club in a deal that will see him spend the season away from Bramall Lane.

Buyabu moves after developing in Sheffield United’s youth set-up, where he has been part of the Under-21 squad. The temporary move to Rotherham offers the defender the opportunity to gain regular senior football in the English league system.

Comfortable on the left side of defence, Buyabu adds depth and competition in a key area of the pitch for Rotherham as they prepare for the new League Two campaign. His arrival fits into a wider pattern of EFL clubs turning to academy players from higher divisions to strengthen their squads.

The transfer continues a pathway from Premier League and Championship development teams into the lower leagues, with Rotherham providing a platform for Buyabu to test himself against senior opposition on a weekly basis.

Buyabu’s loan from Sheffield United U21s to Rotherham is effective immediately, with the defender eligible to feature in League Two this season.