Luton Town have made their second signing of the summer with the arrival of experienced midfielder George Saville, who will join the Hatters when his contract with Millwall expires at the end of June.
The 32-year-old Northern Ireland international, who played a key role in Millwall’s Championship campaigns over the last four seasons, featured in all but one league match last term as the Lions narrowly missed out on the play-offs.
Luton were relegated to League One on the final day of last season, but Saville brings with him a wealth of second-tier experience and becomes the first new addition this summer under manager Matt Bloomfield, after Kal Naismith’s permanent return was confirmed.
Speaking about the move, the Hatters boss told the club’s website: “We’re really pleased to sign George not just because of the experience and quality he’ll bring, but because he’s really enthused about the challenge that lies ahead.
“He’s chosen us over some Championship offers which shows his belief in our club, and that’s the type of character we’re after.
“A tactically astute defensive midfielder and a player who can influence those around him, we’re hoping George can help us with his leadership and ability to knit the game together in the middle of the pitch.
“He’s going to be an important component of the squad as we start to mould the group for what we need next season, and I’m extremely happy to have got this first piece of important business over the line already.”
Saville began his career in the academy at Chelsea but had to go out on loan to gain senior experience. His first real breakthrough came at Millwall during a spell in the 2012/13 season, before impressing at Brentford the following year where he helped the Bees gain promotion from League One.
A move to Wolves followed in 2014, and after another loan return to Millwall in 2015, Saville forced his way into the Wolves first team in the second half of the 2015/16 campaign. He returned to The Den permanently in 2017, scoring 10 goals in 44 Championship matches in a standout season.
A transfer to Middlesbrough came in 2018, where he became a regular fixture for three years before returning to Millwall for a third stint in 2021.
Now closing in on 500 senior appearances, Saville says he is excited by the challenge at Kenilworth Road.
“When I first heard it was an option it was something I was really interested in, and after a few conversations it became a no-brainer,” said Saville.
“It’s been a tough couple of years for the club but this is now a chance to correct that. Speaking with the manager, and what he wants to do, there’s a chance to build something, create a good atmosphere and have a good season.
“I had offers in the Championship but since the first conversation with the manager it was clear-cut, it fits what I want and it’s an opportunity to achieve something.”
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