Sheffield United face competition from Rangers in their quest to sign Kieran Dowell from Everton.
That is according to the Scottish Sun, who report that Steven Gerrard views Dowell as a direct replacement for Ovie Ejaria.
Ejaria has now returned to Liverpool and Gers need to find someone to replace the Liverpool midfielder.
“I definitely admire Kieran and I’ve watched a lot of him,” Gerrard was quoted by the Liverpool Echo.
“He’s an Everton player so I can’t say anything else on him at the moment – but he’s certainly one I admire.”
The Sheffield Star reports that the Blades are also interested in Dowell. Chris Wilder wants a new attacking midfielder in January.
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Who is Kieran Dowell?
The Toffees youngster is a potentially great signing for United. Dowell has already shown his credentials in the Championship last season.
The 21-year-old spent the 2017/18 campaign on loan at Nottingham Forest. He scored ten goals in 43 appearances in all competitions.
That was Dowell’s first experience away from Goodison Park after coming through the academy ranks. There is already evidence he can perform in the second tier of English football.
However, it was thought Dowell would progress and get opportunities at Everton. But so far this season that has not happened.
The England Under-21 international has played twice for his boyhood club in 2018/19 – both in the Carabao Cup. It has become apparent Dowell is not in Marco Silva’s immediate first team plans.
“When the moment arrives I will sit with the player, I will talk with him but you never know what will happen between now and January,” Silva told the Liverpool Echo.
It now remains to be seen whether the Blades or Rangers will win the race for Dowell’s signature. It would certainly help Wilder and his team’s push for promotion.