Sheffield United look like they won’t be signing defender Chris Francis this summer despite him being on trial during the last week or so.
Francis has been part of the squad over in Portugal and played well in the 0-0 draw with Estoril in midweek.
Paul Heckingbottom has since spoken on Francis and admitted a decision would be made over the coming weekend with regards to his future.
However, according to Alan Nixon, the decision has been taken out of United’s hands, with Francis now set to be offered terms by Premier League side Crystal Palace.
Nixon claims that Francis has now left the training camp in Portugal to go and discuss terms with Palace.
The young defender is a free-agent after leaving Bournemouth in the summer. Paul Heckingbottom did say Francis had other interest and offers and it seems that Palace have made their move.
The 20-year-old went from non-league to the Cherries but struggled to make an impression.
The Blades were looking into signing Francis as another young player to develop. However, it seems the ship has sailed now and a move to London could be on instead.
Sheffield United News View: Nothing lost
This is always going to be the risk in taking trialists onboard. Sometimes other offers come in and at the end of the day, the player has to make a career for himself.
It seems like Palace have actually offered a contract and you can’t really blame Francis for going and accepting the deal.
For United, we just move on. Other players will be available and while it’s a shame we’ve put work in with Francis already, it’s simply just how football works at times.