How much money Sheffield United may need to pay Chris Mepham in wages if he signs | OneFootball

Sheffield United are reportedly interested in signing AFC Bournemouth defender Chris Mepham this summer but wages could be an issue

Sheffield United are reportedly interested in signing AFC Bournemouth defender Chris Mepham this summer - but the Blades may face a financial challenge in securing the Wales international's services.

According to journalist Alan Nixon, wages could prove to be a potential snag in any deal for the 27-year-old centre back.

Mepham spent the past season on loan at Sunderland - coming on in the opening minutes of the playoff final to help them secure Premier League promotion - at Sheffield United's expense.

With his contract at the Vitality Stadium set to expire at the end of June, Sheffield United will need to carefully consider wages as they prepare for another season in the second-tier.

Chris Mepham's current estimated wage

As per estimated data available on Capology, Chris Mepham has been earning £25,000 per week during his loan spell at Sunderland - working out at approximately £1.3m per year.

Prior to becoming a temporary Mackem, Mepham was on £35,000 per week when playing for Bournemouth in 2023/2024 season.

It's important to note that these figures are estimates, and the actual figure may vary. However, Sheffield United would need to match or exceed this weekly wage to convince Mepham to join - which Nixon reported is a problem.

The latter figure of £35,000 per week is a huge investment for a Championship club. As estimated by Capology, Mepham would be among the higher earners in the second tier, and joint-highest at Blades.

Chris Mepham could have his contract extended by AFC Bournemouth

Sheffield United's pursuit of Mepham is complicated by some factors beyond the wage demands. The Cherries have the option to extend the defenders contract by a further 12 months - allowing them to recoup some of the £12m they paid Brentford instead of losing him on a free.

Should Bournemouth exercise this option - a bidding war could be triggered between multiple clubs wanting Mepham's signature.

Mepham himself has previously stated to the Sunderland Echo, that regular game time is his priority at this stage of his career, having missed first-team opportunities over recent seasons.

His succesful loan spell at Sunderland - making 40 appearances across all competitons - will have definitely upped his value. Something that could make Sheffield United's pursuit even more challenging.

For Blades, signing Mepham could be a bit sour at first - considering his recent time on Wearside, but it would show they're still intent on going for another promotion push.

However, the estimated wage requirement may stretch their budget too far - particularly as they'd have to focus on the uncertainty surrounding several key players' futures at Bramall Lane.