Takeover disrupting Sheffield United transfers as two negotiations stall | OneFootball

Sheffield United have identified multiple targets this summer. But because of a pending takeover, no deals are expected to be complete until the ownership situation is rectified, that even includes free agents.

According to Alan Nixon, the Blades have been unable to offer Preston North End midfielder Alan Browne a suitable contract, with the 29-year-old exploring his options in free agency.

Coventry City are another Championship team that has been linked with the Republic of Ireland international.

PRESTON, ENGLAND – APRIL 29: Alan Browne of Preston North End runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Harry Winks of Leicester City during the Sky Bet Championship match between Preston North End and Leicester City at Deepdale on April 29, 2024 in Preston, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

Alan Brown to Sheffield United?

The Blades are expected to lose Vinicius Souza and Ismaila Coulibaly, while club legend Oliver Norwood is set to depart when his contract expires in a few weeks. This exodus leaves significant gaps in the midfield, prompting the club to explore new signings to bolster their ranks.

One name that has emerged as a potential target is Alan Browne, a seasoned Championship campaigner. Browne has made over 340 appearances for his current club, scoring 39 goals and providing 22 assists. His consistent performances have made him a standout player in the division, and his experience could prove invaluable to Sheffield United.

Browne’s international experience also adds to his appeal. With 35 caps for the Republic of Ireland, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a competitive edge. This connection to Ireland might work in United’s favour, as Keith Andrews, currently part of the Blades’ management staff, previously worked with the Ireland setup before joining Bramall Lane in December under Chris Wilder.

The 29-year-old has proven himself to be a reliable and durable player, featuring in at least 35 games in eight of his nine Championship seasons.

LUTON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 18: Gabriel Osho of Luton Town runs with the ball during the Premier League match between Luton Town and Manchester United at Kenilworth Road on February 18, 2024 in Luton, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Gabriel Osho to make the switch to Bramall Lane this summer?

Nixon has also claimed that United have been in contract talks with Luton Town defender Gabriel Osho over the last few weeks, however, negotiations are said to have stalled due to the financial takeover edging closer to being completed.

The Nigerian centre-back has not yet pledged his future to the Hatters with his contract set to expire at the beginning of July.

The 25-year-old Nigerian defender made a notable impact for the Hatters in the Premier League last season. Starting 21 times, he was instrumental in securing two clean sheets and even found the back of the net twice. As Sheffield United look to bolster their squad, Osho presents a promising, cost-effective option, thanks to his versatility and impressive performance metrics.

Osho’s adaptability is one of his key assets. Primarily a centre-back, he has also showcased his skills at right-back and in defensive midfield. This flexibility makes him a valuable addition to any team, capable of filling multiple roles as needed.

Osho’s ability to contribute to the attack sets him apart. According to FBref, he ranked in the 85th percentile for non-penalty goals scored among centre-backs in the big five European leagues and European competitions last season.

His defensive statistics further underline his value. He averages two successful tackles per 90 minutes, placing him in the 85th percentile among his peers. His excellence in tackling is particularly evident in the middle third of the pitch, where he ranks in the 96th percentile. This indicates his ability to disrupt opposition play and regain possession in crucial areas.

Moreover, Osho excels in blocking and intercepting passes. He ranks in the 93rd percentile for blocks and 86th percentile for interceptions.

Sheffield United fans: The takeover worries are coming true

Many weeks ago when the rumours of a takeover began, the majority of supporters were sceptical of the news but were also worried about the takeover being a hindrance to a massive rebuilding job that the recruitment team are facing.

Unfortunately those worries have been confirmed and as of now it looks like Sheffield United can’t sign anybody until the takeover gets given the green light by the EFL.

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – MARCH 04: Will Osula of Sheffield United takes a shot at goal during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Arsenal FC at Bramall Lane on March 04, 2024 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)

The Blades could use EFL rules to their advantage next season

The takeover dragging on is the last thing the Blades would want amidst arguably the biggest summer in their club’s history. Sheffield United need to sign at the very least a dozen players in the summer transfer window.

United currently only have 18 players in their first-team squad; that will quickly shrink down with Cameron Archer set to be sold back to Aston Villa, Ismaila Coulibaly’s loan move to AIK could turn into a permanent one, while Anel Ahmedhodzic and Vinicius Souza are highly likely to be sold.

The most frustrating thing about this summer is that Sheffield United had the perfect opportunity to carry one of the bulkiest squads in the Championship. With several under 21’s players being part of the first-team: Oli Arblaster, Andre Brooks, Will Osula, Sam Curtis and potentially Daniel Jebbison, that would mean the Blades wouldn’t need to register these players as part of their final squad because they still classify as U21’s players.

Essentially, Sheffield United could potentially carry a squad of 30 which would be a huge help after their injury crisis over the last 24 months. But, they are well short of that number and look a long way away from confirming any new players. And if this takeover drags on any longer the Blades are all but likely to miss out on their transfer targets, which would be disastrous.

Hopefully the takeover can be processed by the EFL within the next two weeks so that the club can finally get to work on their squad rebuild.