Following Parma’s rumoured interest in Ivanovic, Football League World spoke with resident Millwall expert Lucas Ball about a fair asking price for the young forward’s talents – and whether he should be sold at all.

“I think that’s absolutely it with Ivanovic – unless there’s silly money involved, we need to push back this summer,” Ball was quoted as saying.

“He’s formed a really good partnership with Josh Coburn, who we obviously brought back into the club at the end of last season, and he looked capable of leading the line on his own as well, proving a handful for a number of Championship defenders – including some experienced Championship defenders. “So he’s just someone who will grow better.

Alex Neil has improved him so much in such a short period of time that you’re interested to see what else he can do in the coming months and throughout the season.”

Despite acknowledging Ivanovic’s superb 24/25 form, Ball did not urge that the Lions transfer the striker this summer. “I think it’s exactly that; even at £15, £20 million, I don’t think I’d be particularly keen on moving him this summer because he’s so crucial to what we’re trying to do.

“If we really want to try and have a go at the playoffs this year, which I think we’re more than capable of doing – if the rest of the recruitment is at the same level as what we’ve seen in kind of January and the summer so far – then we’ve got a real shot this year and a manager with the tactical nous and know-how of how to get a team over the line, on into the playoffs and then also win the playoffs, as he has done in his career previously.

“So, yeah, unless something absolutely ridiculous is bandied about and bid for Mihailo, I wouldn’t be looking to sell at all this year, which I believe is probably the viewpoint that most Millwall fans will take – especially since we’ve had some big sales in the last year or so, there’s no real pressure I don’t think at this point. “You would expect him to have another good season.

Then, if we don’t make the playoffs or everything goes up, you might want to consider cashing in next summer.

“You have that option, but if not, you walk back and, hopefully, take the next step with the rest of the group. “So, yeah, we’ll see what kind of bids come in, if any, or if it’s just kind of surface level of interest at this point, but yeah, it’d be interesting to see.” Ivanovic’s Millwall future remains uncertain as transfer interest grows

For the time being, there is no indication that a deal is close, although Ivanovic’s name will definitely be raised as the transfer market unfolds.

His proven Championship success makes him an easy choice for clubs searching for value and potential in the forward market.

The strength of the bids and Millwall’s goals will ultimately determine whether the club accepts offers this summer or remains firm in the expectation of a promotion challenge.

With no known release clause and several years left on his contract, the Lions are in a strong position; nonetheless, Ivanovic’s rising notoriety suggests that big decisions may be required shortly.

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