Chris Wilder is ready to move on three Sheffield United players in order to make room for new targets.
That is according to the Sheffield Star, who report that Wilder likes to keep his squad numbers relatively low. That is because having too many players hinders competitiveness.
Apparently, Kean Bryan, Kieron Freeman and Ricky Holmes could all be leaving the club to make way for new arrivals.
The presence of Holmes on this list should come as little surprise. In fact, the only shock among Blades fans might be that the forward is still at the club.
As the Daily Mail reported back in May, Holmes was among seven players transfer-listed by United upon their return to the Premier League. Only two still remain at Bramall Lane, with Leon Clarke being the other.
Freeman has also struggled for game time. Very much second choice at right-back behind the constantly improving George Baldock, at 27-years-old it’s unlikely he will develop much more.
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Bryan is perhaps the only slight surprise. Signed from Manchester City, the defender has just turned 23 and was expected to be one for the future.
Like Freeman, Bryan has played just twice this term – both coming in the Carabao Cup. Maybe it has become apparent the centre-back is not cut out for the Premier League.
Who are the Sheffield United targets?
Who Wilder will target in the January transfer window very much depends on the funds given to him by new owner Prince Abdullah.
The Saudi Arabian prince was granted sole control of the Blades by the High Court earlier this year. However, former co-owner, Kevin McCabe, plans to appeal that decision.
As part of the verdict, Prince Abdullah also has to buy club assets from McCabe – such as the training complex and Bramall Lane itself. All of this is expensive and could affect transfer funds.
Another story from the Sheffield Star claims that defence and midfield are the priority areas for new signings in January.