Sheffield United casting eyes over ex-Rangers player amidst Watford, Stoke City and Sunderland interest | OneFootball

Sheffield United have offered highly-rated Scottish defender Harris O’Connor a trial with the Yorkshire club ahead of the 2021/22 campaign, according to the Daily Record (live transfer blog, 2.8.21, 18.33).

The free-agent left Rangers at the end of June and has spent some time on trial with Burnley but a deal was not struck.

Watford, Stoke City, and Sunderland were also been accredited with interest in the 19-year-old in mid-July, as reported by the Daily Record.

O’Connor, who was unable to make a first-team appearance with the Scottish giants during his time with the club, spent last season on loan with Brechin City, making nine appearances and featuring at centre-back and left-back for the relegated club.

It remains to be seen whether The Blades view O’Connor to be a player who could step up to first-team level, should they strike a deal for the young defender.

The verdict

It seems that the potential addition of O’Connor would be for the future. He certainly has the potential to become an excellent player within the professional game, but the U23 route seems like the most likely option at this stage of his career.

Last season, he was on loan in Scotland’s fourth-tier – in a side who were relegated – meaning it seems like too much of an ask for him to be ready for Championship football at the top end of the division.

The loan route could also be favoured. If he can secure a temporary move within the Football League, then it could really bolster his chances of being ready for first-team football in Yorkshire the following year.

Quiz: What was the score the last time Sheffield United played at each of these 24 stadiums?

1 of 24

What scoreline did Sheffield United record the last time they played a competitive game at Bramall Lane?

1-0 win

2-0 win

3-0 win

4-0 win