Sheffield United star Reda Khadra makes summer transfer admission | OneFootball

Sheffield United loanee Reda Khadra has admitted he had “many” offers on the table during the summer but thought a move to Bramall Lane was his best bet, speaking to Transfermarkt.

The former Borussia Dortmund man impressed at Blackburn Rovers last season with five goals and four assists in 28 competitive appearances under Tony Mowbray, thriving alongside Ben Brereton-Diaz as a key attacking threat for the Lancashire side.

However, he wasn’t guaranteed to be part of Brighton and Hove Albion’s plans along with Jan Paul van Hecke, who had also impressed at Ewood Park during the 2021/22 campaign.

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Unlike van Hecke though, Khadra wasn’t deemed to be a part of their first team with the Blades snapping him on a loan deal during the latter stages of July.

The 21-year-old has only made six appearances in all competitions so far this term, mainly appearing as a substitute for Paul Heckingbottom’s side but showcasing his importance last week when he popped up with a stoppage-time winner against Swansea City.

His lack of game time will be a source of frustration for the Brighton man considering the fact he didn’t make as many appearances as he would have wanted to at Blackburn – but decided this move was the best possible one for him when weighing up his different options.

He said (via The Star): “The Championship is a very good starting point for growth. I also learned that through my year at Blackburn.

“Coach Paul Heckingbottom saw me twice in the league against Sheffield that year and really wanted me.

“Despite many alternatives, I found this change to be the most sensible for me.”

The Verdict:

Considering there’s a permanent option in this loan agreement, this could be an excellent move for the long term if he can establish himself as one of the first names on the teamsheet at Bramall Lane.

He has a real opportunity to do so, but won’t be short of competition in that area with James McAtee able to play in an advanced midfield role as well as Sander Berge and Iliman Ndiaye.

There’s a chance Heckingbottom will opt to go with one up top for the long term and this leaves two attacking midfield spots to fill, potentially increasing his chances of winning regular game time.

He will only be able to fully develop and fulfil his potential if he does win game time, so he will need to push his performance levels to the maximum to ensure he’s a success in South Yorkshire.

And considering his current loan side view him as a potential long-term asset, it wouldn’t be a surprise if he’s given a real opportunity to make a starting spot his own despite enduring a mixed start to life at the club.