Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has confirmed that the club are close to confirming a major transfer, hinting that Tom Cannon’s expected arrival at Bramall Lane is imminent.
The Blades have been linked with the Leicester City attacker all month amid rumours of a big money move. Cannon had been in the middle of a season-long loan with fellow Championship side Stoke City, where he had scored nine goals in 22 league outings.
The Foxes had a deadline of January 14th to cancel the 22-year-old’s spell at the bet365 Stadium, which was duly announced by both clubs the following morning. This seemingly led to a three-way tussle for his services, with Sunderland and Burnley both joining the race alongside the Blades.
Wilder Drops Major Hint
Sheffield United returned to the top of the Championship last night with a 2-1 win over Swansea City. Following the game, Wilder revealed that he is still looking to add to his squad before the transfer deadline, hinting that the rumoured £10 million deal for Cannon is close. Speaking to The Star, he said:
“I think there’s been some bits and pieces happening back home so I’ll get my phone back on. I think we’re pretty close to the one that’s been talked about and hopefully come 12pm on Thursday we’ll be down the line with maybe one or two to aid the group.
“I think you’ve seen tonight, if we want to be in and around it, we have to be stronger. The competition has to be better, the options have to be better. Absolutely no criticism whatsoever, it’s been a difficult period with some big injuries but there are some boys there who need to come out of the team, have a rest and go again.”
Continuing, Wilder seemed to all-but-confirm the signing:
“There are a lot of games to play but he [Cannon] certainly doesn’t make us weaker and there’s some big players to come back, and some to come in as well. We’ll be in far better shape than we are at the moment. We need options, the other teams at the top have them and we need them as well.”
Writer’s View
News that Sheffield United had won the £10 million race for Tom Cannon emerged yesterday. However, for Wilder to pretty much confirm the news will be music to supporters ears. The 22-year-old will be a welcome addition in the Blades’ front line during the second half of the season and alongside the recently returned Ben Brereton Diaz, gives Chris Wilder added strength in depth.
