It became clear at the start of the January transfer window that Alex Neil needed to bolster his midfield. Several players were running down their contracts including a number of midfielders so it seemed a decision was taken that at least some of those players would likely leave and needed to be replaced.
Whiteman has impressed at Doncaster and now makes the step up to see if he can find the same level of consistency at Championship level. With the likely exit of several senior key players he is likely to be given every opportunity in midfield.
The midfielder has signed a three and a half year deal and the club confirms a significant undisclosed fee was paid. His addition will be welcome but in reality he is simply a replacement for those who will leave imminently or in the summer when contracts expire.