"I can see" - Exclusive: Michael Cooper exit fear at Sheffield United eased by David Prutton | OneFootball

David Prutton gives his take on whether Michael Cooper could attract interest this summer.

David Prutton has admitted that Sheffield United's Michael Cooper could attract interest this summer after a superb debut season at Bramall Lane.

Signed for £2 million from Plymouth Argyle in the summer, he has been a stalwart in Chris Wilder's side, starting 40 of their 42 Championship matches.

Alongside Burnley's James Trafford, he’s been one of the Championship’s standout shot-stoppers and a key figure in Sheffield United’s push for promotion. While that campaign has faltered somewhat in recent weeks, his tally of 102 saves at a rate of 76.7% has proven invaluable, with a healthy goals prevented figure of 4.93 underlining his impact.

It’s all part of what’s been a remarkably consistent career to date for Cooper, with the 25-year-old previously lighting up Home Park during his impressive spell with Plymouth before making the move to Yorkshire.

David Prutton wouldn't be surprised by Michael Cooper interest

While there have been no rumours as yet of a potential move away for Cooper, his form is surely turning heads at clubs in higher divisions. Given his age and remarkable consistency between the sticks, it’s hard to imagine he’s not attracting interest.

Speaking exclusively to Football League World, Sky Sports pundit David Prutton suggested that Sheffield United should brace themselves for enquiries about Cooper’s availability this summer.

"Michael Cooper has had an extremely decent season for Sheffield United," Prutton told FLW. "A real presence in both personality and play.

"I’ve been impressed with what he’s done and how he’s gone about it.

"His ability to handle the expectation and pressure of playing for a big club in the Championship is potentially where the interest could come off the back of that. I’m sure Sheffield United would fight tooth and nail to keep him.

"He is seemingly, professionally and ambitiously, in a hurry - but I think he’s found a home at Sheffield United, so I can see him staying."

Lack of promotion could cost Sheffield United

Having suffered three defeats on the bounce, the major concern for Sheffield United is whether promotion will materialise this season. Automatic spots now look a tall order, and as we know, the play-offs offer no guarantees - particularly after a season’s worth of hard graft.

Should they fall short of securing Premier League status for 2025–26, a number of players will inevitably attract interest, and Cooper will almost certainly feature on the shortlist of several top-flight clubs.

Chelsea, Manchester United, AFC Bournemouth, and promotion rivals Leeds are all likely to be in the market for a goalkeeper, and the Blades’ number one could fit the bill perfectly.

Not only is he outstanding when it comes to shot-stopping, but he’s also comfortable with the ball at his feet - a key trait in the modern game. This season, he’s posted a passing accuracy of 70.6%, while his 268 long balls have come with an accuracy of 40.2%. For sides like the Blues and the Red Devils, such attributes are non-negotiable when scouting goalkeepers.

It’s no surprise, then, that Cooper is expected to draw interest. And if Chris Wilder can’t guide United into the top flight, he may well struggle to keep hold of his first-choice keeper.