AFC Wimbledon may have to look elsewhere for a new centre-back as Cardiff City are expected to make a late call on the future of Deji Oshilaja.

The defender made a big impact during his loan spell at Kingsmeadow last season and manager Neal Ardley rates the young gun highly.

Unlike fellow loanee Jake Goodman, who is not under consideration despite his release by Millwall, Ardley would love to see Oshilaja back at Wimbledon next season.

However, the Bermondsey boy is reporting back to Wales for pre-season for Bluebirds boss Russell Slade to gauge his progress before making a decision on whether to retain his services.

It is understood Slade will not rush and the Dons are mindful that they need to bring in bodies at the back having lost experienced heads Adam Barrett and Alan Bennett last term.

Oshilaja, of Nigerian descent, won rave reviews from the Dons fans for his bravery and athleticism at the heart of the defence.

The 22-year-old has been with Cardiff since pitching up at the club’s academy six years ago without any previous academy experience.

He made 23 appearances for the Wimbledon after signing in January and netted once in a 2-1 victory over York City in early March.