George Baldock has signed a new contract with Sheffield United to keep him at the club until 2022.
This latest development is likely to put an end to the speculation that Baldock could move to Celtic.
As the Daily Record reports, the 26-year-old had emerged as a “serious target” for the Hoops as they made signing a new right-back a priority.
The Blades were reluctant to sell Baldock, but the Scottish champions were hoping a bid of £3m would convince them.
Instead the defender has committed his future to the South Yorkshire side, leaving Celtic having to look elsewhere for recruitment at the back.
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Why George Baldock is so important to Sheffield United
(Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
Baldock has played every minute so far of United’s first season in the Premier League in 12 years.
The full-back was solid enough in the opening day 1-1 draw at Bournemouth, but really shone during Saturday’s 1-0 win over Crystal Palace.
Tasked with helping to keep the usually dangerous Wilfried Zaha quiet, Baldock was imperious in defence. On what was a poor afternoon for Palace, Zaha barely got into the game.
Baldock is also hugely important in attack for the Blades. As one of the two wing-backs along with Enda Stevens, he provides the width in the team.
Last term Baldock shared the role with Kieron Freeman. Yet this time around he already seems to have asserted himself as Chris Wilder’s first choice in the position.
Therefore for Baldock to want to spend at least the next three campaigns at Bramall Lane is a big boost for the club.
“The club is going places and I want to be part of it, it was as simple as that really,” he was quoted by BBC Sport.
“It’s been a great start to the season, I just want to keep putting the performances in and see where it takes us.”
