Sheffield United aim to make a final impression in the post-season friendly

And a current Sheffield United target is likely to be exposed, giving the Blades a chance to assess his performance one last time before the transfer window kicks into high gear.

The Blades have previously been linked with 18-year-old centre-back Ashley Phillips. The towering defender has 26 Championship appearances after rising through Blackburn Rovers’ academy before joining Spurs last summer, and Phillips will then be loaned out to Plymouth Argyle in the campaign just gone.

While Phillips may lack experience, he certainly makes up for it with his physical presence and composure on the ball – both things United have lacked all season.

Phillips is bound to be on loan at another Championship club this summer, so on Wednesday he will essentially be auditioning for his next temporary team.

NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – AUGUST 18: John Egan of Sheffield United applauds the fans after the team’s defeat during the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Sheffield United at the City Ground on August 18, 2023 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Harriet Lander/Getty Images)

In an ideal scenario, the Blades sign two right-sided centre-backs this summer: Paddy McNair as a free agent and Phillips on loan from Spurs. Both signings would improve centre-back depth as well as free up funds to be used elsewhere in the squad.

Chris Wilder clearly wants defensive reinforcements as Sheffield United continue to be linked with defenders – Joe Worrall another name that has been mentioned. But the 27-year-old will cost around £4m and for me, he would be better suited as a center back three. So unless John Egan leaves, I personally can’t see the club spending £4m on a back-up defender.