The striker could leave Sheffield United this summer as talks over a new contract are on hold

Concerns that Sheffield United striker Oli McBurnie could leave on a free transfer this summer are growing. The Blades were previously unable to reach an agreement with the player and his agent and now further talks are on hold over the proposed takeover, according to The Star.

McBurnie, 28, has had back-to-back good goal-scoring seasons. In United’s promotion campaign, the Scottish striker scored 13 goals and added a couple of assists to his name. Last season, despite multiple injury problems, he scored six goals and provided three assists, which was enough to be United’s joint-top scorer in the Premier League and second on the list for assists.

Unfortunately, McBurnie only made 15 top flight starts as a result of his injury-riddled campaign. These fitness fears are the main issue supporters have with United’s number nine.

It’s clear he has a big impact on the team when he plays, but some fans believe the Blades can’t afford to make the Scot their highest-paid player if he wants to miss a large part of the season. While others want McBurnie to sign regardless of what he brings to United when he starts.

However, that decision is out of United’s hands at the moment as they await EFL approval with the Fit and Proper test. The delayed takeover only added to the anxiety among fans.

McBurnie is not the only player whose future at S2 is in doubt due to the takeover. The futures of Adam Davies, Ben Osborn and Daniel Jebbison are uncertain. Meanwhile, John Egan’s future with the Blades will depend on how well he recovers from the Achilles tendon injury he suffered at the Olympic Stadium in September.

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – MARCH 30: Oli McBurnie of Sheffield United celebrates after scoring a goal that was later disallowed during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Fulham FC at Bramall Lane on March 30, 2024 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

Speaking to The Star in November, McBurnie described the decision to extend his stay at Bramall Lane as a “use”. “Surely you know how happy I am here and settled back in the north. Being around her, I get on well with the fans and the staff and all the guys. I like it here, so yeah, it’s a no-brainer.” We are almost seven months after this statement and everyone is still none the wiser.

In my opinion, the Blades need to do everything in their power to keep Oli McBurnie at Sheffield United for at least next season. Despite a difficult campaign due to injuries, the number nine has posted some impressive stats that highlight his effectiveness.

Compared to other strikers in Europe’s big five leagues and European competitions, McBurnie has won almost eight aerial duels per 90, which puts him in the top 2% in Europe in that category, according to FBref. He ranked in the 85th percentile for fouls drawn. And, he ranked in the 89th percentile in foul checks.

These stats back up most people’s eye test: McBurnie gives Sheffield United the ability to go long and make the ball stick or draw a foul to take pressure off the defence.

In addition to being a strong presence to watch at the top of the court, he puts in a lot of work on the defensive side of the ball. McBurnie ranks in the 99th percentile for clearances, 96th for blocks and shows his willingness to win the ball by ranking in the 90th percentile for tackles and 79th for interceptions.