Arsenal and Everton have found out the price it will cost if they wish to take Sander Berge from Sheffield United this summer.
According to Yorkshire Live, Berge will be allowed to leave the club for around £35m this summer. That is a drop in the original buyout clause United inserted in Berge’s contract, thought to be around £45m.
The drop-off is thought to be due to United’s relegation back to the Championship. Berge, however, is not thought to be actively pushing for a move despite the amount of interest.
Both Arsenal and Everton are said to be keen on the Blades star. Spurs, too, have also shown an interest in him over the last few months.
United are looking to bring in around £40m this summer to offset losses from relegation. Berge, clearly, would be able to contribute almost entirely to that figure if he is sold.
MORE UNITED STORIES
Prince Abdullah has yet to make a decision on who the new United manager will be. A number of names – including Paul Heckingbottom – are said to be on the shortlist at Bramall Lane.
Whoever is the new manager, will no doubt be hoping to manage a Blades squad containing Sander Berge.
£35m is too good to turn down, that’s the reality for Sheffield United
As much as United would love to keep Berge and the prospect of him tearing the Championship up is one to dream about.
But the fact is, if £35m is that release-clause is right and someone is willing to pay it, then no Blades fan can really grumble at that money.
It eclipses any fee we’ve ever paid, or received. Further, if it helps keep the rest of the squad together, then it could be the ideal situation really.
So, as much we’d love to see Berge in red and white next term, the fact is that a club such as ours heading into the Championship simply cannot turn down £35m.