4 Jimmy Dunne alternatives Sheffield United must consider amid QPR contract blow | OneFootball

Sheffield United have missed out on a deal for defender Jimmy Dunne as he extended his contract with QPR.

Sheffield United are set for a new era after Ruben Selles was confirmed as Chris Wilder’s replacement at Bramall Lane.

It’s a very bold move from the Blades hierarchy, as Wilder brought incredible success to the club during his time in charge, whilst they were unfortunate to miss out on promotion after picking up 92 points last season.

That change in management has had a knock-on effect on transfers, and it’s well-documented that the Blades are heading in a different direction when it comes to recruitment under the current owners.

Sheffield United miss out on Jimmy Dunne transfer

One player Wilder had wanted to bring to Yorkshire was Jimmy Dunne, but the Irish defender ended speculation surrounding his future by agreeing a new deal at QPR.

That is a blow for the Blades, as Dunne is a reliable performer at this level, and they are short on options at the back.

Whilst the AI date-led approach will identify new signings, the Sheffield United hierarchy will surely target players who can make an impact in the here and now as well, as promotion is the main objective.

With that in mind, we look at FOUR alternatives to Dunne that the Blades could consider…

Rob Dickie

The Bristol City centre-back is known to Sheffield United fans as he was sent off in their play-off semi-final back in May, in what was the turning point in the entire tie.

But, that was a rare mistake by the player, who has been a reliable and dominant figure at the back for the Robins.

He will have also caught the eye of the recruitment team due to his statistics as well, with Dickie ranking among the best in the Championship when it comes to winning duels, headers and blocking shots.

With his contract expiring in a year, and Sheffield United needing players at the back, this would be a good fit for Selles as he looks to build a team to win promotion.

Perry Ng

Dunne has proven himself at right-back and centre-back for QPR, and the Blades will ideally address both positions this summer.

Ng is someone who can cover both roles, even if he is better as a full-back, but that versatility is an appealing factor.

Again, Ng ranks very well in terms of individual performances, both for his natural defending and his crossing ability, so he could become a very effective player for Selles.

Cardiff’s relegation means he could be available, and it would be a sensible pick-up for Sheffield United.

Teden Mengi

This may be difficult due to supposed top-flight interest, but Sheffield United offer a more realistic option of first-team football to the ex-Man Utd academy graduate.

Mengi impressed for Luton in the Premier League, but injuries restricted him to just 20 appearances as they dropped to the third tier.

Like Ng, that makes him a realistic option, and Mengi will bring physicality and recovery pace that Selles would want. He is also comfortable on the ball, so if the manager does try and tweak the style of play, the 23-year-old could quickly become an important figure.

Alfie Gilchrist

This may divide opinion as Gilchrist spent the season on loan at Sheffield United, and he ended up losing his place in the team.

However, that felt harsh, and the Chelsea loanee did impress earlier in the campaign, and he is another who can fill in two positions at the back if required.

With the Londoners ready to sanction a permanent sale, Gilchrist fits the profile in terms of the type of player the Blades should be targeting, as he is 21 and has plenty of room for improvement.