Nico Gaitan has started negotiations with Boca Juniors over a potential move to his former club, according to Todofichajes.
Gaitan is leaving MLS side Chicago Fire at the end of December and has been linked with Sheffield United. The Guardian previously reported that the Blades are among three Premier League teams interested in the 31-year-old.
Aston Villa and West Ham United are the other two, with the Hammers having even held talks with Gaitan’s representative – Matias Lipman.
The Argentine does have the option of a one-year extension to remain in the USA. However, it was said the former Benfica and Atletico Madrid man preferred a return to Europe.
Yet this latest report now states that a switch back to Boca is now the most appealing offer for Gaitan. The attacking midfielder came through the ranks with the club before leaving for Portugal in 2010.
Is Gaitan to Sheffield United off?
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There is one determining factor that could still convince the South American to come to England – money.
Villa, West Ham and the Blades are all likely to be able to offer higher wages than Boca. It seems the trio all favour a two-year contract offer for Gaitan; who turns 32 in February.
The other question, of course, is where the Argentina international would fit into Chris Wilder’s plans?
Considered a winger earlier in his career, Gaitan has developed more into a number ten in recent times. That would have suited the Blades last season, but they now operate with a 3-5-2.
This has hindered current attacking midfielders Luke Freeman and Ravel Morrison, who don’t appear to have a natural role in Wilder’s system.
The only other position that Gaitan could occupy is one of the front two. This would be in a similar style to Callum Robinson, who himself has adapted to be a second striker.
Gaitan is also likely to demand high wages and represents little to no resale value.