Sheffield United retained the services of Sander Berge over the summer but it appears things were nervier than Paul Heckingbottom let on.
The Blades boss consistently said there was interest but until Club Brugge came in near the deadline, no concrete bids came the club’s way. One of the interested parties here in England was said to be Chelsea. The Blues were thought to be keen on Berge, before landing Denis Zakaria on loan.
Berge is said to still be attracting attention ahead of January. Both Liverpool and Barcelona among the teams to be credited with an interest.
Heckingbottom feared Berge sale
The Sheffield Star is reporting today that while Heckingbottom might have been calm on the surface when it came to Sander Berge, there was a fear deep down.
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Amid those reports from the summer, The Star writes how coaching staff at Bramall Lane were privately concerned that the board would buckle and sell Berge.
It’s claimed that there was a concern within the United camp that the Norwegian would go. And with United failing to win promotion, few could have blamed the board for cashing in.
However, to his credit, Prince Abdullah held firm. Since then, Berge has missed a big chunk of this season through injury. He is expected to be back for the trip to Huddersfield. After that, United will face a nervous January as clubs look to strengthen their squads.
Sheff U News View: Berge key for United’s promotion hopes
You have to give credit to the board for not buckling under pressure here. Selling Berge would have been an easy out and with the likes of Chelsea sniffing, few would have blamed Berge for going either.
For United, though, Berge feels crucial. He was exceptional after Christmas last season. And if he can produce similar this year, then United might well just win the promotion they crave.
Of course, money and ambition can talk. If someone comes in with £20m+ for Berge, United will be in a tough situation. Similarly, if Berge expresses a desire to leave, that complicates things.
But for now, things are looking ok for the Blades. If Heckingbottom can lead United to promotion, then Berge might well get that new contract anyway.
