Sheffield United Hunting For Foxes: One Deal is A Race Against Clock Whilst Other Has Minor Stumbling Block | OneFootball

Sheffield United are reportedly prepared to spend up to £7 million to secure Leicester City striker Tom Cannon, with hopes of finalising the deal today; the striker’s recall option from Stoke City reportedly expires at midnight, per Alan Nixon. However, the Blades face competition from Sunderland, who remain keen on the young Irishman.

The potential transfer has gained traction following recent comments from Leicester City boss Ruud van Nistelrooy. Speaking to BBC Sport, van Nistelrooy acknowledged the ongoing discussions regarding Cannon’s future, stating:

“He’s definitely one on the list that we keep a close eye on. Tom’s situation is closely assessed, and there’s a decision to be made. We’re looking in this window as to what’s best for him and for the club.”

Sheffield United Edge Closer to Signing Hamza Choudhury?

WALSALL, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 24: Hamza Choudhury of Leicester City (left) is put under pressure by Ronan Maher of Walsall during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Walsall and Leicester City at Poundland Bescot Stadium on September 24, 2024 in Walsall, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

If the Blades secure Cannon’s signature, their focus is expected to shift toward bolstering their midfield, and it’s another out-of-favour Foxes player. Leicester City’s Hamza Choudhury emerged as a target earlier this month, with Leicester reportedly open to a loan deal that includes a mandatory option to buy. However, Sheffield United would prefer a loan with an option to buy, per Tom Collomosse.

Choudhury, known for his defensive prowess and high energy, would bring much-needed stability to Sheffield United’s midfield. While smaller in stature compared to Vinicius Souza, Choudhury is a natural ball-winner. The Blades have struggled in this area, especially while Souza has been unavailable. Choudhury’s ability to break up opposition play and transition smoothly through the thirds could prove invaluable in the latter half of the season.

Chris Wilder, Sheffield United’s manager, has prior experience working with Choudhury during his short stint at Watford in the 2022/23 season. Under Wilder, Choudhury shone as a defensive midfielder, ranking among the Championship’s best:

My Opinion

Like always, there is plenty of noise and rumours in the transfer window, but, again, like always, the Blades have not yet signed anybody, thus creating frustration amongst the fan base.

United have struggled for depth all season at the top of the pitch with all three of: Rhian Brewster, Tyrese Campbell and Kieffer Moore missing several games. And this has forced teenager Ryan Oné to start a few games in the Championship, when, ideally, he should be learning his trade in League One or Two.

If the Blades can sign Cannon then that would certainly allow for Oné to go out on loan. It’s also worth remembering that Rhian Brewster’s contract with the club is set to expire in the summer, so adding a 22-year-old forward [Cannon] to the team this window would be a good move.

Tom Cannon & Ben Brereton Diaz Together Would Fix Final Third Issues

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – MAY 04: Ben Brereton Diaz of Sheffield United runs with the ball during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Nottingham Forest at Bramall Lane on May 04, 2024 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images) (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

I must stress that Cannon can’t be the only one to come in though. He is a very good finisher, but that means absolutely nothing if the Blades don’t create opportunities for him. And it’s inconsistency in the final third which has been an issue. This could definitely be improved if Ben Brereton Diaz was to also join the club this window, providing an explosive option down the left.

Brereton-Diaz gave the Blades a huge lift last January, when he was signed on loan from Villarreal, scoring six goals and providing an assist in 14 Premier League games. But, it’s his underlying performance metrics that were even more intriguing.

Even though he played for the worst team in the league last term, Brereton-Diaz had a non-penalty xG of 0.43 per 90, which put him in the 70th percentile compared to other Premier League forwards. Additionally, he was a huge outlet in terms of progressing and creating, ranking in the 83rd percentile for progressive passes, 87th percentile for crosses into the box, 74th percentile for passes into the box, and 81st percentile for carries into the penalty area, per FBref.