Sheffield United are eager to strengthen the ranks, but they look set to lose a valuable asset in towering striker Kieffer Moore.

Sheffield United are heading into the 2025/26 campaign with promotion on their minds. Ruben Selles is leading SUFC after the decision for Chris Wilder to leave, and he needs backing with more new faces.

The Blades have branched into the European market for some signings, but they need to sign a striker, and fast. Towering talisman Kieffer Moore is heading for Wrexham, and the Steel City want to get a replacement through the door as soon as possible.

leeds united defender joe rodon and sheffield united striker kieffer mooreImage courtesy of: JASON CAIRNDUFF/REUTERS.

Might might not have played a particularly prevalent role last season, but his physical presence at the top of the pitch offered something different to other strikers, and some would argue SUFC need a truly potent goalscorer this summer transfer window if they’re to compete at the top of the Championship.

With that said, we put forward three striker Sheffield United should turn their focus too…

Phil Harres – Holsten Kiel

As overseas targets have been the focus for Sheffield United this summer, with start with an option on the continent. 23-year-old Phil Harres only joined Holsten Kiel last summer, but after their relegation from the Bundesliga, he could be a great striker to consider.

After prolific stints in the lower levels of German football, the 193cm striker jumped up to the top flight last season and notched a respectable 10 goals and three assists in 34 games across all competitions. His best moment came as he scored and provided an assist in a 4-2 win over Borussia Dortmund.

Such a return would make him an eye-catching signing but following relegation, SUFC could find a bargain and develop Harres into a fine striker.

sheffield united, 3 Kieffer Moore replacements Sheffield United must consider as Wrexham move nearsImage courtesy of: CATHRIN MUELLER/REUTERS.
Ross Stewart – Southampton

If a more experienced presence is wanted to replace 32-year-old Moore, Sheffield United may well find that Southampton are receptive to cashing in on Scottish striker Ross Stewart.

His time at St. Mary’s has been marred by injury but he’s fit again as he enters the last year of his deal. Stewart’s Championship success could make him an option but with Damion Downs joining Cameron Archer and Adam Armstrong in the attacking ranks, minutes could be hard to come by.

Stewart is a hard-working and physical striker who could lead the line brilliantly for Selles. In his lowly figure of 16 Championship games, he notched 10 goals and three assists after setting League One alight with Sunderland.

Sam Surridge – Nashville SC

Last but not least is Sam Surridge, a name EFL fans may not have heard for a while. After spells with Nottingham Forest, Stoke City and AFCC Bournemouth among other loan clubs, the 27-year-old has been starring in the United States for MLS side Nashville SC.

Sam Surridge stats by league – via Transfermarkt

Competition Games Goals Assists Championship 86 17 4 MLS 62 32 5 League Two 56 16 7 Premier League 26 1 0

 

Surridge has a fantastic 20 goals and three assists in 26 games across all competitions this season and could be a fantastic option for Sheffield United to consider.

His current contract expires in 2026 but an option to extend is included. Nonetheless, he might not be a break-the-bank signing for SUFC, but Surridge could come in and lead the line as he sees to unfinished business on these shores.

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