Sheffield United have invited free agent Jaïro Riedewald in for a trial as Chris Wilder accelerates plans to reinforce his squad ahead of January.
The 29-year-old Dutch international, formerly of Ajax and Crystal Palace, is expected at Shirecliffe as the Blades explore a deal that could address depth on the left of defence and in central midfield. It follows United’s recent free-agent additions of Ben Mee and Danny Ings, and reflects Wilder’s intention to move early in the market after returning for a third spell in charge.
Jaïro Riedewald. In the building. 🤝#CPFC | #CRYNFO pic.twitter.com/trQTNVLYrR
— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) October 7, 2023
What Happened and Why It Matters
Riedewald, capped 3 times by the Netherlands, spent last season with Royal Antwerp before becoming a free agent in the summer. Comfortable as a left-sided centre-back or holding midfielder, he fits areas Wilder has targeted since Jack Robinson’s deadline-day exit to Birmingham City left United light on experienced left-footed options. Rookie Nils Zätterström is the only specialist cover, while Mee has filled the role since Wilder’s recent switch to a back three.
United’s interest also aligns with the manager’s preference for cost-smart recruitment outside the window. Transfer rules allow clubs to sign unattached players at any time, and United have already benefited by assessing candidates at close quarters at their Shirecliffe base before offering terms. A successful trial would make Riedewald Wilder’s first signing of this third stint and bolster a group aiming to claw away from the Championship basement after a difficult start under Rubén Sellés.
BREAKING: Sky Sports News understands Rubén Sellés has been sacked as Sheffield United head coach. pic.twitter.com/Kr1OLRily8
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) September 14, 2025
The Blades’ need was underlined by the 1-0 defeat at Hull City before the international break, a result that maintained pressure on a side rebuilding on the fly. Riedewald’s profile: positional versatility, top-flight experience, and availability, makes him a logical low-risk addition as United look to reset their season and tighten a defence that has been over-worked.
Reaction, Impact, and What Comes Next
Wilder has already signalled that January groundwork is in motion, with a clear plan ready for ownership review.
Riedewald’s trial fits that blueprint: if he proves sharp and tactically aligned, United can act swiftly without a fee, preserving budget for window priorities. His ability to cover 2 roles offers immediate flexibility, either slotting on the left of a back three or shielding the defence in midfield, and would reduce the load on Mee while giving Wilder more scope with in-game adjustments.
For the player, Bramall Lane offers a platform to re-establish in English football after 7 seasons at Palace and a year in Belgium. At his best, Riedewald is press-resistant, reads danger well, and progresses play through the thirds, traits that suit Wilder’s demand for brave, front-foot build-up from wide centre-backs and holding midfielders.
United will continue parallel work on longer-term January targets, but a positive assessment at Shirecliffe could see talks advance quickly. With the Blades seeking momentum and resilience, a smart free-agent addition now would allow integration time before the winter schedule tightens.
The club will proceed with medical, fitness, and tactical checks; if all boxes are ticked, Riedewald could be registered outside the window and available ahead of the festive run.
