Sheffield United are expected to target new centre-backs in the upcoming January transfer window.
Manager Chris Wilder has confirmed defence is one of the areas being prioritised for improvement. He added that the Blades are hoping to make “two or three” signings.
The central defensive trio of Chris Basham, John Egan and Jack O’Connell have been excellent this season after promotion from the Championship.
At the halfway stage, only leaders Liverpool have a better record in the Premier League in terms of goals conceded.
Yet beyond them Wilder’s options are limited. Phil Jagielka has filled on on occasion but is now 37-years-old. Richard Stearman arguably isn’t cut out for the top flight anymore, while Kean Bryan is likely to leave on loan.
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United have largely targeted players from the second tier they believe can make the step up. So here are three potential centre-back options.
3 centre-backs Sheffield United could target
(Photo by Athena Pictures/Getty Images)
Joe Rodon
Wales Online reported of the Blades’ interest in Rodon back in October. At the time the 22-year-old had just undergone surgery and has not played since.
Rodon has enjoyed an impressive rise over the past two seasons at Swansea City and is now a full Wales international as well. He has plenty of potential.
Darragh Lenihan
Lenihan is a long-term target for United – as reported by the Lancashire Telegraph. Blackburn Rovers rejected an approach from the South Yorkshire team in 2017 following their promotion from League One.
This summer there were also rumours. A little older than Rodon at 25, Lenihan has still helped Blackburn to ninth in the Championship this term.
Joe Worrall
This may be a little tougher to complete, with Football Insider reporting Arsenal and Everton are both interested in Worrall. But then the Blades are currently above both sides in the table.
Little wonder, really, as Worrall has helped Nottingham Forest to the third best defensive record in the Championship this term. At 22, there is plenty of opportunity for improvement, as well.
