Sheffield United target Oli McBurnie has dropped a big hint about his future at Swansea City.
The Sun (19 May, page 63) reports that the Blades and Brighton and Hove Albion are competing for the signing of McBurnie.
It is understood the Swans top scorer will cost around £12m. United are looking to bolster their striker options after being promoted to the Premier League.
However, Brighton could prove an attractive prospect to McBurnie. That is because the 22-year-old would link up with former Swansea boss Graham Potter – who has just been named as the new Seagulls manager.
Yet it seems after scoring 24 goals in 44 games in all competitions in 2018/19, McBurnie might stay at the Liberty Stadium.
“The fans have been absolutely unbelievable with me since I arrived here,” the Scotland international told the club’s official website.
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“It sends shivers down my spine when I hear the fans singing my name.
“For the love they show me, I try to repay them with goals.
“I’m really looking forward to next season, and hopefully I can score a lot more goals for them.”
McBurnie alternatives
If the Scot does indeed remain in South Wales or moves to Brighton, then the Blades do have other targets.
Manager Chris Wilder has already sat down with assistant Alan Knill and head of recruitment Paul Mitchell to write their list.
Brentford’s Neal Maupay has many admirers at Bramall Lane, according to the Sheffield Star. Like McBurnie the Frenchman is also 22-years-old and actually scored more Championship goals this season, finishing with 25.
Another who is of interest to United is Middlesbrough ace Britt Assombalonga. However, any potential deal for Assombalonga could be complicated by his involvement at the upcoming African Cup of Nations.
The 26-year-old is in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s provisional squad for next month’s tournament. The final doesn’t take place until July 19.