Sheffield United have been linked with a move for Reading midfielder John Swift for some time now, with the Royals star once on the radar of former Blades boss, Chris Wilder.
Wilder was watching Swift as soon as United won promotion to the Premier League. That interest was maintained, with the Blades still said to be keen on the Royals ace as recent as this summer.
Hitting Form
This season, Swift has been in blistering form for Reading. So far, the 26-year-old has notched eight goals in just 14 games, adding a further six in the assist column. It’s safe to say, then, that Swift has rediscovered his very best form.
However, Swift is out of contract this summer. It could mean Reading lose a player they once valued at around £7m, for nothing. And his former teammate, Charlie Adam, has told BBC Berkshire that he knows full well that the Blades held an interest in John Swift.
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“His talent, and his goals and assists, shows he can go and play at (Premier League) level – but it’s getting that opportunity,” Adam said of Swift.
“Sheffield United were interested in him when they were in the Premier League when I was at Reading. It’s going to be difficult (to keep him at Reading). The longer his contract runs down, the club will have to look at (selling him). He’s a talented player.”
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If Reading are willing to cash-in early, then Swift is definitely a player the Blades should look towards. His record speaks for itself at Championship level. He brings goals, assists, and quality from set-pieces in midfield. Coincidentally, they’re all things this Blades squad lacks.
It’s interesting to hear that the interest was genuine. Certainly, Charlie Adam knows a decent midfielder when he sees one, having been at Liverpool and Rangers.
Swift’s contract scenario will worry Reading. United, then, have been firmly placed to make sure they’re in the mix in January and beyond.
