Sheffield United defender, Jack O’Connell, has been linked with a surprise move to Tottenham Hotspur by the Daily Star.
Apparently Spurs view O’Connell as the ideal replacement for Jan Vertonghen, who is out of contract this summer. And it’s easy to see why.
O’Connell has played every minute of the Blades’ 2019/20 Premier League campaign so far. During that time the 25-year-old has helped them to eight clean sheets and the second best defensive record in the division behind leaders Liverpool.
Like Vertonghen, O’Connell is also left-footed and could easily slot in alongside Toby Alderweireld or Davinson Sanchez at the back.
What Wilder has to say about O’Connell to Tottenham rumours
(Photo by Matt McNulty – Manchester City/Manchester City FC via Getty Images)
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Speaking after United’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Manchester City on Tuesday night, manager Chris Wilder responded to the speculation.
“Jack’s been amazing, he’s going nowhere. Nobody’s going anywhere,” Wilder told SUTV.
“There’s talk in the papers and I do know at times where it comes from. But we’re protected and the boys are enjoying their football.
“They don’t produce performances like tonight if they don’t want to be here.”
Wilder appears to quash other rumours that have been circulating about his players as well. There are claims that Arsenal are interested in signing both George Baldock and John Fleck.
The Blades are arguably most vulnerable to losing Fleck, as the midfielder’s current deal with the club expires in 2021. However, talks have begun over a new one.
Both David McGoldrick and Billy Sharp have also been linked with a return to the Championship. Leeds United are said to have shown interest in McGoldrick, while Wilder confirms there have been enquiries for Sharp.
Yet clearly the 52-year-old doesn’t envisage any of his first team squad leaving Bramall Lane during the January transfer window. Aside from the three he has already specified – Kean Bryan, Leon Clarke and Jake Wright.
