Sheffield United could finally have some positive news with reports claiming Oli McBurnie is close to signing a new contract with the club.
McBurnie has become a key figure for United under Paul Heckingbottom, despite a range of fitness issues hampering his progress at times.
The big striker hit double figures last term as his partnership with Iliman Ndiaye fired United back into the Premier League.
However, he is among a cluster of players set to be out of contract in the summer. Paul Heckingbottom has asked for some of those players to get new deals, and it looks like progress is being made.
Oli McBurnie to get new Sheffield United contract
According to TeamTalk, United are in advanced discussions with both McBurnie and goalkeeper Wes Foderingham over new deals.
It’s claimed the pair are both eager to get their futures sorted and United feel there has been progress with both players.
Both McBurnie and Foderingham can walk away for nothing in the summer if not.
The Blades paid around £20m to sign McBurnie when initially promoted to the PL under Chris Wilder.
His goal record has hardly been brilliant since that move but he remains a big presence in the dressing room and this season has been vital to any good performances United have put in.
A step in the right direction
There’s no doubt that the contract situation of our players is having some sort of effect on things.
At the moment, players are playing in limbo and after Prince Abdullah’s own admission that he likes to leave contracts until the final 12 months, it’s left a worrying feeling around the club.
Getting the likes of McBurnie and Foderingham tied up will be a boost. It might encourage others to follow suit, which can only help with the harmony within the squad.
The likes of Daniel Jebbison have been offered new terms as well, although the youngster could be sold with no agreement in place just yet.
Key players like George Baldock, John Egan and more also see their deals expire soon.
The Blades, then, need to get their act together and quickly with some of these.