Analysing and debating what to expect from Sheffield United in the January transfer window - who could they sign and who might depart?
Monday 30 December 2019 17:37, UK
Chris Wilder has repeatedly spoken of a desire to strengthen his Sheffield United squad in January as he seeks to capitalise on their impressive season.
"I've said to the owners that maybe if we were in a different position, to keep their hands in their pockets, but now is the time to strengthen," the Blades boss told a news conference at the start of December.
Speaking towards the end of the month, he added: "We're possibly looking at two or three players coming into the group - not big changes. Maybe a couple going out, but two or three coming in to give us a lift and boost in the changing room."
Wilder is also keen to reward several players with new contracts, including John Lundstram, John Egan and Enda Stevens.
After their 2-0 defeat to Manchester City on December 29, he added: "We've not got the world to spend but whatever the board give me I'll try to maximise to bolster the squad for competition for places and make the club as strong as we can."
Sheffield United focused on attacking reinforcements in the summer. The Blades paid £17m - rising to £20m - for Oli McBurnie from Swansea and spent £10m bringing in Lys Mousset from Bournemouth. Ben Osborn, Luke Freeman and Callum Robinson also joined for undisclosed fees.
Phil Jagielka returned to his boyhood club for free, while his former Everton team-mate Mo Besic arrived on loan. Dean Henderson re-signed on loan from Manchester United, with Ravel Morrison also a surprising free addition.
Jack Rodwell, free agent; Mason Holgate, Everton [The Sun]; Ollie Watkins, Brentford [Sky Sports News]; Eberechi Eze, QPR [The Sun]; David Parkhouse, Celtic [Football Insider]
John Egan, Everton [Daily Mirror]; Billy Sharp [Daily Mirror]; Ravel Morrison, free [The Sun]
Sky Sports News reporters Tim Thornton and Richard Graves...
"The Blades are on the hunt for cover, mostly - specifically at centre-back to help the likes of Chris Basham and Jack O'Connell in the right and left centre-half positions.
"Chris Wilder would also like a defensive midfielder but one that has first-class distribution to help cover for Oliver Norwood when he is not available.
"In terms of outgoings, fringe players like Leon Clarke are expected to leave Bramall Lane next month, while there could also be loan interest in Ravel Morrison, who has struggled to nail down a regular place.
"Wilder has, however, told his squad they will all get their chance this season and all have to be ready when called upon."
Sky Sports will bring you the very latest news from the January transfer market with the return of three shows.
Start your day with Good Morning Transfers at 9am as our team of reporters bring you the latest news and insight. Transfer Talk then follows at midday delivering analysis of the biggest stories. Then join us at 7pm for the definitive round-up of the day's news with The Transfer Show.
Meanwhile, the Transfer Talk podcast will also be back at the turn of the year with more expert analysis from here and across the continent.
And as well as tuning into Sky Sports News, don't miss a thing with our dedicated Transfer Centre blog.
