Sheffield United skipper Billy Sharp could be in line for a new deal after Paul Heckingbottom met with club officials this week in Geneva.
The Blades boss was out in Europe to iron out the club’s plans for the summer. Among those discussions were talks of new players, existing players, and new contracts.
And according to Alan Nixon, the result of the talks could now see Sharp end up being offered a new deal.
Billy Sharp to get new Sheffield United contract
Nixon’s report comes a week or so after initial claims that Sharp was set to leave. The skipper gave an emotional address at United’s promotion parade and it looked like it was all over.
However, Nixon is now suggesting that a mere £20m spending budget could now result in Sharp being offered fresh terms later in the summer.
The club are likely to need to use the majority of the money raised by winning promotion to swallow up existing wages and new deals. That could mean Sharp gets something new offered, with the money needed to go out and get replacements likely to be much higher.
It remains to be seen whether United get any fresh investment. Dozy Mmobuosi’s takeover seems to have failed. But there is talk of American investment from a Silicon Valley based group.
Club must act in Heckingbottom’s best interests
If there is going to be so little to spend, then it is imperative that the club allow Heckingbottom to keep who he wants at the club.
Clearly, Hecky values Sharp’s contribution at the club. At dressing room level, the manager obviously sees Sharp as one of the chiefs and wants him around the place.
Yes, this might mean reduced terms for Sharp. But that might be something he has to accept, as well as a drop in playing time.
With such a shoe-string budget, it’s vital the team has the right spirit within the squad again. Sharp is obviously key to that, so if Hecky wants him around, then a new contract offer is the right thing to do.
