"We obviously like the player" - Chris Wilder addresses Sheffield United, QPR transfer saga | OneFootball

Blades boss admits interest in key QPR figure during January window

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has admitted that the club attempted to sign Queens Park Rangers defender Jimmy Dunne during the January transfer window.

The Blades boss, who was looking to strengthen his defensive options in a crucial period of the season, confirmed the approach in a recent interview.

Dunne, a key figure in QPR’s resurgence in form this season, had played every minute of league action until his unexpected omission against Millwall amidst transfer interest.

His consistency and defensive quality made him an attractive target for Sheffield United, who are looking to reinforce their backline as they push towards promotion back to the Premier League.

Sheffield United’s interest in Jimmy Dunne confirmed by Chris Wilder

Speaking candidly about the club’s pursuit, Wilder stated: “We made a bid for Jimmy and it got turned down.

“He wasn't our player and QPR have every right to do what they needed to do in that particular moment.

“For a player out of contract in the summer, we put a reasonably good bid in. We obviously like the player because if we didn't, we wouldn't have put a bid in."

Despite their efforts, the Blades were unable to complete a deal for the Republic of Ireland international, with QPR ultimately opting to keep hold of one of their most reliable defensive assets.

Why Sheffield United wanted Jimmy Dunne

United’s pursuit of Jimmy Dunne was a logical move, given the defender’s integral role at QPR and his suitability for a side competing at the upper end of the Championship.

The 26-year-old has been a cornerstone of the defensive setup at Loftus Road, offering leadership, aerial dominance, and a composed, no-nonsense approach.

A key factor driving United’s interest was the season-ending injury to Leicester City loanee Harry Souttar. His absence left a significant void in the Blades’ defensive structure, necessitating reinforcements to maintain their ambitions of a Premier League return.

Dunne, with his proven track record and ability to adapt to a higher level, was identified as a natural solution to bolster their backline.

Football League World exclusively reported just over a week before the January deadline that Sheffield United were plotting a move for Dunne, and given both his performances this season and the limited time remaining on his contract, their interest made perfect sense.

However, negotiations quickly became complicated, with QPR placing a £3 million valuation on the defender.

In the short term, United’s decision to withdraw from discussions was a major boost for QPR, who have relied heavily on Dunne this season.

Having nailed down the right-back role, his influence in both boxes has been invaluable - his aerial prowess has made QPR a significant threat from set pieces, while his defensive solidity has been equally crucial at the other end of the pitch.

With the Hoops still eyeing a potential push towards the play-offs, Dunne remains central to their ambitions.

Whether Sheffield United reignite their interest in the summer remains to be seen, but for now, both club and player will remain focused on their immediate objectives.