Sheffield United have a huge summer ahead of them as they aim for promotion back to the Premier League after missing out in the Championship play-off final at the end of May.
Tommy Watson immortalised himself in Sunderland history with his 95th minute winner at Wembley, as the Blades’ hunt for an end to their play-off issues ended in yet another heartbreak, and now they have to recover.
Sheffield United are already keen on one new face in Jack Rudoni, and with Gustavo Hamer’s future at the club up for debate, Chris Wilder has plenty of work to do in the transfer window to ensure that his team can win promotion automatically in 2025/26.
There is a desire to bring in more defensive strength at Bramall Lane, and one of those who was on the correct side of the result at Wembley in the Championship play-off final may just be on his way to S2 this summer.
Sheffield United target Chris Mepham but face one big challenge
According to a report from Alan Nixon, Wilder is looking to add to his defensive options in the transfer window, with AFC Bournemouth centre-back Chris Mepham on his shortlist.
Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images
Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images
The 27-year-old spent last season on loan with Sunderland, featuring against Sheffield United in the play-off final but following the Black Cats’ promotion, another move to the Championship could be on the cards.
But there is a potential issue for the Blades, Nixon said: “Sheffield United are looking into a deal to sign Chris Mepham from Bournemouth.
“Welsh centre-half Mepham starred on loan for promotion rivals Sunderland but Blades want him at the second attempt – after missing out for him last time. The obvious snag will be Mepham’s wages as he is on a Premier League contract with the Cherries.”
He concluded: “Chris Wilder also wanted Jimmy Dunne from QPR, but they see him as both a right back and a right sided centre half. Wilder is hoping for backing from the American owners after signing a new contract but other out-of-work bosses are lobbying for the post.
Chris Wilder could be looking to replicate Burnley next season
After fighting for the top two places in the Championship all season long, a disappointing end to the campaign saw the Blades fall off the pace as Leeds United and Burnley secured automatic promotion.
It was the defensive strength of the two Premier League-bound clubs that helped separate them from the rest of the division, with the Clarets in particular proving their worth by conceding just 16 goals all year long.
Having a solid base in defence is crucial to success in the Championship, and with Jimmy Dunne also a target, Sheffield United are moving quickly to help add strength and depth to their back four.