Blackpool look set to beat competition from both League One and the Championship for Sheffield Wednesday midfielder George Byers, according to a report by The Star.
The 27-year-old began his career in Watford’s youth setup, before making the switch to South Wales to join Swansea City, spending two and a half years at the club before making a loan switch to Portsmouth in January 2021. That move then helped the Scotsman earn a free transfer to his current club in the following summer.
Making 78 appearances in his time at the club, which saw the Owls win the playoffs to return to the second division last season, Byers has become a fan favourite at Hillsborough. With his contract up in the summer, the club looked set to allow their man to leave on a free in the summer, however, their initial stance has changed, allowing clubs to make bids as the deadline approaches.
Fellow Championship relegation-threatened Rotherham United reportedly made their interest known to their Yorkshire rivals, along with third-tier playoff hopefuls Oxford United.
However, it seems that Blackpool have beaten both to a deal, that is likely to see the London-born player arrive at Bloomfield Road on loan until the end of the season.
The Star also report that David Downes, former Head of Recruitment in S6, who joined the Tangerines in the summer was a key part of making this deal happen.
The Seasiders will be looking to improve their chances at getting promoted at the first time of asking as they travel to 7th place side Stevenage this weekend.
Writer’s View
Byers has shown his ability in League One and above over the past few seasons and although he was injured for Wednesday’s record-breaking playoff campaign, he was still an integral part of their promotion side.
This is a great move for all parties as Blackpool get an experienced EFL star as they push for a place in the top six, whilst also taking a closer look ahead of a potential move in the summer once his contract runs out.
