Sheffield United news: Spurs transfer setback, Liverpool player wanted, Chris Wilder "harsh" claim | OneFootball

All the latest news surrounding Sheffield United

Sheffield United are once again preparing for a season in the Championship after missing out on promotion in the previous campaign.

The Blades reached the play-off final after coming third in the table, but lost 2-1 to Sunderland at Wembley Stadium.

Chris Wilder’s side had 90 points to their name, but that wasn’t enough to earn a place straight back to the Premier League.

The Yorkshire outfit will now be hoping to use this summer to improve the squad and go one step further next year, as they eye a place in the top flight.

Here we look at all the latest news surrounding Sheffield United…

Tottenham Hotspur transfer setback

It was reported by The Star earlier this month that Sheffield United were interested in a double swoop for Tottenham Hotspur youngsters Alfie Devine and Ash Phillips.

However, it has since been claimed by Alan Nixon that new Spurs boss Thomas Frank is keen to keep Phillips at the club.

The defender came through the Blackburn Rovers academy system, and spent time on loan with Stoke City last season, giving him plenty of Championship experience.

But the Danish coach is now considering keeping him in the London outfit’s first team squad for next season, potentially with a view to earning first team minutes.

While he has yet to play for the Premier League side, the arrival of Frank as manager could change that next season.

Chief scout decision

Sheffield United are undergoing a lot of change behind the scenes, with Ruben Selles now in charge of the first team squad.

Wilder parted ways with the Yorkshire outfit after failing to lead the club to Premier League promotion, with the Spaniard taking his place.

But, according to Alan Nixon, chief scout Jamie Hoyland is set to stay at Bramall Lane.

This will allow some continuity in the recruitment process for Selles, who will be looking to strengthen the squad this summer for a promotion push next season.

Hoyland has plenty of history with Sheffield United, but has only been in the role of chief scout since last year.

Lewis Koumas chase

Sheffield United are reportedly interested in a move for Liverpool youngster Lewis Koumas this summer.

It has been claimed by the Daily Mail that the Baldes are keen on the 19-year-old in a bid to bolster their attacking options for next season.

The teenager spent the previous campaign on loan with Stoke City, contributing three goals and two assists from 43 appearances in the Championship.

It remains to be seen whether he will be allowed to leave on loan again, with the player potentially set to take part in Arne Slot's pre-season plans before any decision is made over his immediate future.

Chris Wilder sacking claim

Speaking exclusively to FLW, Don Goodman has branded Sheffield United’s decision to dismiss Wilder as “harsh in the extreme.”

He believes the 57-year-old won’t be out of work for long, if he wants a quick return to football, praising his time back at Bramall Lane for his second stint.

“I think the Chris Wilder sacking is harsh in the extreme, really,” said Goodman.

“I don’t think ever before, if you take the points won on the football pitch, which is 92 points, that has never ever failed to get you automatic promotion.

“So, it does feel a little bit harsh.

“I think they are probably analysing the early/mid-part of the season where Sheffield United were grinding results out but nevertheless it’s all about winning.

“Ultimately, Chris Wilder at Championship level has proven he is a winner.

“So, I don’t know whether he’ll want a break or if he’ll want to get straight back in, but I don’t expect he’ll be short of offers.”