The January window already appears in full swing, with Sheffield United already bringing in Jack Rodwell and being linked with a number of names, including Nottingham Forest man, Joe Worrall.
The 22-year-old defender has returned to Nottingham this season after spending last year with Rangers. Clearly fancied by Sabri Lamouchi, Worrall has made an impressive 27 appearances already this term.
However, reports of a potential Sheffield United move a few days ago may have some Nottingham Forest fans worried.
In Joe Worrall, the Reds fans have a home-grown talent who gives his all. Not only that, but he is seemingly in the best form of his career so far. It’s little surprise, then, to see the likes of Sheffield United linked with a move.
But is Joe Worrall the right man for Sheffield United? And do the pieces needed to do a deal fall into place?
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It does seem there’s more going against the case for Worrall to move to South Yorkshire than for it.
Priced out
Despite Chris Wilder admitting he’s going to be looking at bringing in a few players, is he really going to spend big on a defender?
He’s already signed Jack Rodwell as cover for his back three. Furthermore, he has Phil Jagielka warming the bench if needed and Richard Stearman sitting patiently within the squad too.
Add that to the fact the Joe Worrall is not going to replace John Egan and it starts to make little sense that the Blades move for the Nottingham Forest man.
In addition, Forest will demand a hefty fee if they do sell. It’s almost impossible to see the Blades splashing upwards of £10m on a player who probably won’t even make the first XI.
There’s always the summer
Should Worrall stay at the City Ground and the Blades keep their Premier League status, then there is, of course, always the chance a summer move might materialise.
United would need to strengthen again if they do indeed stay up. Cover is needed for Jack O’Connell at left centre-back, while Chris Basham is now well into his 30s.
Joe Worrall could, then, represent a decent signing. However, he’d have to adapt to the way United play but it’s easier to see him coming in over the summer, rather than mid-season.
There is every chance the Blades might well someone. Indeed, John Egan has been talked about as a potential Everton signing. If this was the case, then a summer move for Worrall would then make sense.
But, as things stand, there seems to be little point in Sheffield United pursuing a move for Joe Worrall.