Takeover disrupting Sheffield United transfers as two negotiations stall

Sheffield United have identified several targets this summer. But because of a pending takeover, no trade is expected to be completed until the ownership situation is rectified, which 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 side who have been linked with the Republic of Ireland international.

PRESTON, ENGLAND – APRIL 29: Preston North End’s Alan Browne runs with the ball while under pressure from Leicester City’s Harry Winks 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)

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

One name that has emerged as a potential target is experienced Championship campaigner Alan Browne. 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. That Ireland connection could work in United’s favor as Keith Andrews, currently part of the Blades’ management staff, previously worked with the Irish outfit before joining Bramall Lane in December under Chris Wilder.

The 29-year-old has proven to be a reliable and durable player, appearing 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)

Nixon also claimed that United had held contract talks with Luton Town defender Gabriel Osho in recent weeks, however, negotiations are said to have stalled with the financial takeover close to completion.

The Nigerian centre-back is yet to commit his future to the Hatters, with his contract set to expire at the start 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 strengthen their squad, Osho presents a promising and cost-effective option thanks to his versatility and impressive performance metrics.

Osho’s adaptability is one of his key strengths. Primarily a centre-back, he has also shown his ability at right-back and defensive midfield. This flexibility makes him a valuable addition to any team, able to fill 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 stats further underline his value. He averages two successful tackles per 90 minutes, placing him in the 85th percentile among his peers. His tackling excellence 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 the 86th percentile for interceptions.

Many weeks ago, when rumors of a takeover began, most supporters were skeptical of the news, but were also concerned that the takeover would be an obstacle to a massive rebuilding job facing the recruiting team.

Unfortunately, those worries have been confirmed and it now appears that Sheffield United cannot sign anyone until the takeover is given the green light by the EFL.

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – MARCH 04: Will Osula of Sheffield United shoots on 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)

A protracted takeover is the last thing the Blades would want in the midst of arguably the biggest summer in their club’s history. Sheffield United must sign at least a dozen players in the summer transfer window.

United currently have just 18 players in their first-team squad; which will shrink rapidly once Cameron Archer is sold back to Aston Villa, Ismaila Coulibaly’s loan at AIK could turn permanent, while Anel Ahmedhodzic and Vinicius Souza are very likely to be sold.

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

In essence, Sheffield United could have a squad of 30, which would be a big help after the injury crisis of the last 24 months. But, they are well below that number and look very far from confirming any new players. And if this takeover takes longer, the Blades are almost likely to miss out on their transfer targets, which would be disastrous.

Hopefully the takeover can be processed by the EFL in the next couple of weeks so the club can finally get to work on rebuilding the squad.