Sky Sports pundit David Prutton believes Sheffield United goalkeeper Michael Cooper could attract transfer interest this summer after a fine debut season at Bramall Lane.
The 25-year-old rose through the ranks at Plymouth Argyle, making his debut at just 18-years-old in 2017. By 2020, he had nailed down a regular starting berth and was a part of the Pilgrims team which stormed to the League One title in 2023.
The shot stopper suffered his fair share of injury problems last season, but returned towards the end of the campaign to help Plymouth avoid relegation and maintain their Championship status. This saw Sheffield United take an interest, securing his signature for an initial fee of £2 million last August.
Cooper has become a firm favourite in Yorkshire, conceding 31 goals in 40 games, keeping 19 clean sheets.
Cooper’s Form Expected To Attract Interest
The EFL has become an attractive proposition for goalkeepers this season. Burnley’s James Trafford and Wigan Athletic’s Sam Tickle are amongst those that have caught the attention of Premier League clubs and could be subject of bids this summer.
Speaking to Football League World, David Prutton admits he wouldn’t be surprised to see Cooper added to that list:
“Michael Cooper has had an extremely decent season for Sheffield United. A real presence in both personality and play.
“I’ve been impressed with what he’s done and how he’s gone about it.
“His ability to handle the expectation and pressure of playing for a big club in the Championship is potentially where the interest could come off the back of that. I’m sure Sheffield United would fight tooth and nail to keep him.”
Although Sheffield United have lost ground in the automatic promotion race, they are still in with a good chance of an immediate return to the top tier. As such, Prutton believes that Cooper will be at Bramall Lane next season:
“He is seemingly, professionally and ambitiously, in a hurry – but I think he’s found a home at Sheffield United, so I can see him staying.”
Writer’s View
Cooper has been impressive this season but it is hard to see him moving on this summer. He only signed a four-year deal last year and he will be in no rush to leave just yet. Age is on his side and next season will only see him improve, whether that be in the Championship or the Premier League. He does look destined to play in the top tier and may still get his chance with the Blades, but he’d be best placed to stay put for now.
