Sheffield United enter the 2025/26 season with several gaps still to fill in their squad. Under the guidance of Ruben Selles, the Blades remain focused on a return to the Premier League, but the manager will need firm backing in the transfer market to make that goal realistic.
While loan signings such as Louie Barry and Djibril Soumare offer short-term boosts, the club’s only permanent additions so far, Mihail Polendakoov and Ehije Ukaki from Bulgaria, remain largely untested at this level. With both Vini Souza and Anel Ahmedhodzic now sold, there is money available.
Image courtesy of: ED SYKES/REUTERS.
The question is whether United will spend it wisely and in time. The early signs suggest that Sheffield United will be looking to invest in the coming days.
The latest name linked with a move to Bramall Lane is defender Ben Godfrey. According to Football Insider, Sheffield United have made a loan offer to sign the former Ipswich Town and Norwich City man.
Godfrey is being eyed as a potential replacement for Ahedhodzic, who has recently joined Feyenoord. He is the second centre-back to be linked with SUFC in the last few days.
The Blades have also made a bid for Charlie Hughes of Hull City. However, Sheffield United look to have moved on to new targets.
Ben Godfrey would be a top signing for Sheffield United
Godfrey has proven himself to be a reliable and adaptable defender at Premier League level, primarily featuring as a centre-back or full-back during his time with Everton. He was also a dependable performer during his spell at Norwich City.
Image courtesy of: LEE SMITH/REUTERS.
A player of his quality would be a valuable addition for Sheffield United in the Championship. Despite a disappointing loan stint at Ipswich Town, he still possesses the attributes to thrive at that level.
A return to England also appears quite realistic, given how limited his opportunities have been at Atalanta. He’s made just four appearances in all competitions, all as a substitute. In Serie A, he’s been an unused sub in all but three matches—coming off the bench in the season opener and missing two others through injury.
Ben Godfrey’s career stats (Transfermarkt)
Sheffield United must sign a central defender
Sheffield United were already light in central defence before Anel Ahmedhodžić’s exit, making reinforcements vital before the window closes. Only Tyler Bindon and Jack Robinson are natural centre-backs, with youngster Jamal Baptiste potentially needed for the opener against Bristol City.
Rhys Norrington-Davies can fill in but is better suited to left-back, and there are no defensive midfielders capable of covering, leaving manager Rubén Sellés with limited options at the back.
Sheffield United fire sale leaves squad looking dangerously bare ahead of season opener: Opinion