LATEST: Deadline day chase on for ex-Celtic midfielder as Rotherham play hardball over prime Portsmouth target

But Danny Cowley may be forced to wait until the summer to get the man who’s emerged as a prime midfield target.

Cowley is prepared to make the 26-year-old one of his top earners as he looks to bolster his options in the middle of the park.

But the Millers’ reluctance to let the Scot go without having a replacement lined up looks a substantial stumbling block to getting the deal over the line.

The League One leaders are also keen to maximise their financial return for the man they signed from Ross County for £250,000 in 2019.

The official line from Rotherham is Pompey’s interest hasn’t manifested into an official bid, although discussions have taken place behind the scenes.

Cowley has made public statements about refusing to pay ‘over the odds’ for the men he wants to recruit, and looking to short-term deals or loans if that proves to be the case with his prime targets.

That could instead lead to the Blues boss sitting tight to get a player who is out of contract in the summer, and will add substantial bite to the middle of the park for his side.

After making a strong impact in the Championship for Rotherham, Lindsay has found himself increasingly behind the talented array of midfielders Paul Warne’s side possess this term.

That makes the move to Pompey appealing for the former Cetlic man, who would be a central figure in Cowley’s long-term plans.

Pompey have until 11pm tonight to get any business across the line, after making four signings this month.

Cowley has made it clear he’d ideally like to land a midfielder and attacking addition to his squad.