Sheffield United are closing in on a £6m deal for Preston North End forward Callum Robinson, according to the Sun.
Preston have accepted the offer from the Blades and given Robinson permission to discuss personal terms with them.
The 24-year-old has now left their pre-season training camp to have a medical and begin negotiations.
Bournemouth and Norwich City are also interested in Robinson, but United appear to have won the race for his signature.
Which begs the question whether that means an end to other reported pursuits?
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Manager Chris Wilder admitted to the Sheffield Star the club is “deep in negotiation with four or five players.” Dean Henderson is expected to rejoin on loan from Manchester United, while Ravel Morrison is currently enjoying a successful trial with the South Yorkshire side.
Nottingham Forest’s Ben Osborn is viewed as left wing-back cover for Enda Stevens, while Robinson is among three attackers being pursued. The other two are Swansea City striker Oli McBurnie and Neal Maupay of Brentford.
Where Callum Robinson would fit in at Sheffield United
(Photo by Stephen White – CameraSport via Getty Images)
Although generally utilised as a winger last season, Robinson is likely to be viewed as an attacking midfielder or second striker at Bramall Lane.
That is because Wilder does not play wide midfielders, instead implementing a 3-4-1-2 formation.
This wouldn’t be an issue for Robinson, who often cuts in from the flank to operate in and around the box. It was what allowed the Republic of Ireland international to score 13 goals in 28 games in all competitions in 2018/19.
Which would suggest that Wilder is targeting either McBurnie or Maupay, not both. This would be unsurprising as, according to reports, the duo have asking prices of £20m.
Wales Online says Swansea want double the £10m the Blades allegedly offered for McBurnie. Meanwhile, West London Sport says the Bees want at least £20m to sell Maupay.
United may have increased revenue since getting promoted to the Premier League, but it is unlikely they could afford both. At £6m, Robinson represents a far cheaper alternative.
