This article is part of Football League World’s ‘Terrace Talk’ series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…
Chris Wilder’s future as Sheffield United manager is in serious doubt following the club’s play-off final defeat to Sunderland, and a potential managerial change could open the door for Alfie Gilchrist’s return, who is likely to exit Stamford Bridge this summer.
Reports suggest that Wilder’s stint at Bramall Lane is set to be over for the second time, with owners COH Sports looking set to make the change sooner rather than later.
Should Wilder leave, it could mean that the likelihood of a renewed deal for loanee Gilchrist, who fell out of favour in the second half of the 2024-25 season.
Sheffield United told to consider permanent Alfie Gilchrist swoop
According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea are prepared to let Gilchrist leave permanently this summer, with just one year remaining on his contract, representing their last opportunity to get money for him.
The young defender spent last season on loan with the Blades, making 32 appearances across all competitions – but his playing time was reduced following the January arrivals of Harry Clarke and Hamza Choudhury, albeit he also suffered an ankle injury which reduced the amount of time he was available for.
Alfie Gilchrist’s Sheffield United Stats 2024-25 – As Per FotMob
Appearances
32
Goals
0
Assists
2
Chances Created
12
Tackles Won
29
FLW’s Blades fan pundit Jimmy from The Blades Ramble podcast praised Gilchrist’s contributions despite his limited opportunities in the latter part of the season, and wouldn’t mind seeing him back at Bramall Lane as a permanent investment, although he has expressed doubts over that due to the fact he barely played in 2025.
“I really liked Alfie Gilchrist, I thought he was a good player – a good, solid addition for us at right-back,” he told FLW.
“He prefers to be a centre-half, I think he’s a little bit small to be a centre-half if I’m honest, but maybe in a three that would suit him potentially.
“I wouldn’t mind him as a member of the squad next season, particularly on a permanent because I think there’s a big upside to Alfie.
“I thought there was absolutely zero chance of him coming back to be honest because he was pretty much bombed out of the squad after January.
“Another player on loan, Hamza Choudhary, was brought in as a centre-midfielder, ended up our starting right-back, out of position, essentially keeping Alfie out of the team, so I can’t see Alfie wanting to return in similar circumstances.”
Chris Wilder uncertainty could see Alfie Gilchrist return to Sheffield United
The potential departure of Chris Wilder has created fresh possibilities for Gilchrist’s future.
New owners COH Sports, led by businessmen Steven Rosen and Helmy Eltoukhy, completed their takeover in December 2024 and are reportedly considering Wilder’s future.
The timing does appear favourable for Sheffield United to pursue a permanent deal because of the TEAMtalk report that Chelsea are open to selling their academy graduate.
While some Chelsea youngsters like Tyrique George are being rewarded with new contracts and first-team opportunities under Enzo Maresca, Gilchrist appears to be heading in the opposite direction.
Following the reports coming out of both clubs, there’s definitely a lot to unpack – the versatile defender’s ability to play multiple positions across the backline and previous experience at the club could entice Sheffield United to go back in for him.
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