Walsall sign Southampton's Jason McCarthy on loan

Walsall have snapped up promising Southampton defender Jason McCarthy on loan – as it was revealed the club did not receive a bid from Rotherham for Tom Bradshaw.

McCarthy, who is captain of the Saint's under-21 side, has agreed a temporary switch that will see him stay at the Banks's Stadium until January.

A towering centre-back, the 20-year-old spent last season on loan at League Two outfit Wycombe – where he was crowned Supporter's Player of the Year.

McCarthy's arrival was announced as it emerged Walsall did not receive a £250,000 bid for star striker Bradshaw from Rotherham.

Reports emerged on Monday evening suggesting that the Millers had made a move for the forward who has scored 20 goals in each of his last two seasons.

But the Express & Star understands those reports are wide of the mark – with the Saddlers board having not receiving any bid - or even an enquiry - from the South Yorkshire outfit.

Jon Whitney remains busy trying to improve his squad ahead of the 2016/17 season and the manager is expecting latest recruit McCarthy to make a big impact.

"I've been watching Jason for the last six months whilst he was working with Gareth (Ainsworth)who's a good friend of mine," Whitney said.

"He spoke really highly of him as a player and a person.

"He's a committed defender who has a tremendous work ethic and will fit in really well to the philosophy I'm trying to develop at the club.

"Southampton think really highly of him, has captained their U21 side and they're keen to build a relationship with the club this season and going forward.

"He'll be an integral part of the squad and has the skill set and attitude to be really successful here a Walsall.

"The new loan system will benefit us as well because we're guaranteed to have him until January so unlike last season it'll give us some stability with the players we bring in."

Meanwhile, the Express & Star understands former Saddler Milan Lalkovic will be announced as Portsmouth player later today.