Derby County raid could deliver Sheffield United a long-term successor for Chris Wilder signing: Opinion | OneFootball

The likes of Enda Stevens, John Fleck, Jack Robinson, Billy Sharp and Ben Osborn are all out of contract this summer with a major shake-up likely to happen whichever league the Blades find themselves in come May.

There are several others who have been linked with a move away, including Iliman Ndiaye and Sander Berge. Another player who’s future was discussed in January was experienced defender John Egan.

There were links to West Ham but no bid ever materialised with Egan saying himself that a move elsewhere wasn’t at the forefront of his mind. That shouldn’t stop the Blades planning for the long-term as they look to revitalise their ageing squad.

Obviously, the current transfer embargo and takeover situation do present obvious hurdle, but as soon as those matters are sorted, it would make sense for the planning to begin.

At 30 as well, Egan isn’t getting any younger and could well look to move on towards the end of his current contract, which expires at the end of next season.

At least with the potential turnover this summer, it would make sense for the Blades to start recruiting young players, and there’s one in particular who would suit the system perfectly, and provide the long-term option to Egan.

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As a long-term successor to Egan, the Blades should look at Derby County centre back Eiran Cashin.

Cashin has been one of the best defenders in League One, with the youngster getting better with each week. He’s been a mainstay in the team since being thrust into action last season as the Rams were relegated from the Championship.

This of course is backed up by statistical ranking amongst other defenders in League One. According to WhoScored, he’s the highest ranking centre back in the division. He’s made the tackles, the most interceptions and won the most headers all at the age of 21.

Importantly, the 21-year-old offers a skillset that Egan doesn’t possess which is the ability to hit accurate diagonals across the pitch to teammates feet or into space.

For Sheffield United, utilising space in behind opposition defences, allowing them to press high up the pitch, that will no doubt become an incredibly useful attribute amongst their arsenal.

He’s almost a like for like replacement for Egan, and certainly would be an astute addition to the team to develop and with his contract due to expire next season, it could open up a possible move.