Sheffield United are considering a move for midfielder Andre Dozzell after his departure from QPR, reporter Alan Nixon has said.
Sheffield United are having to be shrewd with their transfer business in the early stages of the window.
Due to ongoing discussions about a takeover at Bramall Lane, Chris Wilder and the hiring staff have been concentrating primarily on free transfers. With a significant overhaul required, it is anticipated that they can make significant progress with their recruitment drive as quickly as possible.
However, it appears that the Blades are aware that there are still good possibilities available on the free agent market.
Reporter Alan Nixon disclosed on his Patreon page that Sheffield United is considering a potential move for midfield player Andre Dozzell. At the end of the previous season, QPR decided not to renew the 25-year-old’s contract, therefore he is available for nothing.
The demoted team may make a deal offer to the former Ipswich Town player. He would be a far easier replacement for Norwich City mainstay Kenny McLean and Swansea City captain Matt Grimes, who have both been linked to a move to Bramall Lane.
To hire the two, fees would be necessary, and sales might be needed to raise money.
Dozzell may not be the most eye-catching of signings for Sheffield United but given the scale of the rebuild needed, he could prove to be a shrewd addition for the Blades this summer.
The 25-year-old, who primarily serves as a centre or defensive midfielder, is a clean player when in control. He can play out on the right and in a more advanced attacking midfield role, which would add much-needed diversity to Wilder’s lineup.
Dozzell has made 126 appearances in the Championship while on loan at Birmingham City, Ipswich Town, and QPR.
Many will bet on the former England youth international to complete his career at Loftus Road and land another second-tier transfer. At this point, Sheffield United might make him an offer to stay.
Wilder’s midfield ranks
Looking at the players currently on the books at Sheffield United, there are a good amount of options in the middle of the park available to Wilder heading into next season.
However, key men Gustavo Hamer and Vini Souza are both the subject of Premier League interest. Not only would that leave them down on two midfielders, but it would leave the Blades without two of their standout players too.
Oliver Arblaster, Anis Slimane, Tom Davies and versatile youngster Andre Brooks are the other options. Callum O’Hare’s arrival sees them secure the services of an attacking midfielder too.
Departures could mean further depth is needed though and in the current situation, free transfers seem to be the focus. Of those available, someone like Dozzell who offers Championship experience and versatility could be a smart signing.
