Sheffield United could start their overhaul under Slavisa Jokanovic in January, with four players linked with moves away over the last 48 hours.
The Blades are in need of fresh faces in January. Manager Jokanovic is desperate for two wingers and a new midfielder to suit his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation. And according to different reports, the United boss could sanction as many as four transfers.
Clearout
This was always going to come at Bramall Lane. Many players are out of contract in the summer anyway. So when January comes, if there is a chance to get some money in the coffers, then the Blades could take it.
According to reports from Turkey, Besiktas are keen on signing Lys Mousset in December. It’s claimed the Frenchman could fetch more than £6m, which would be more than suitable for United.
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
Secondly, a report from TeamTalk has claimed Chris Wilder fancies a reunion with Chris Basham and Oliver Burke in Middlesbrough. Basham is an obvious link, while Burke is a more surprising name mentioned.
Finally, Conor Hourihane is being linked with a move to Norwich City after Dean Smith took over. Football Insider claim that the former Villa manager is looking to bring Hourihane to Carrow Road. The Irishman is currently on loan at Bramall Lane.
However, few would argue if Hourihane was sent back early. His form has been poor, and he’s on big money at The Lane.
Wiggle Room
Those four players leaving Sheffield United in January would help Jokanovic with his own incomings. According to Salarysport, United would free up more than £100k-a-week in wages.
Hourihane tops that list on £42k. Mousset and Basham are on £22k and £23k respectively, while Burke earns around £16k-a-week. Of course, those figures could be inaccurate. But it adds up to a cool £103k-a-week, something Jokanovic could definitely put to use elsewhere.
Basham is the one who most United fans would likely be bothered about leaving. He is Mr Sheffield United, and his departure would sting. But, he’s also not playing a lot, and at 33, is probably past his best.
Mousset will always have fitness issues, Burke has been one of the worst signings in history, and Hourihane – for the money – is offering nothing.
If this is the start of a Jokanovic overhaul in January, then so be it.
