Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder says both Jairo Riedewald and Patrick Bamford have indicated a desire to stay at the club beyond January.
Sheffield United were active in the summer transfer window but failed recruitment has contributed to their downfall greatly. It meant SUFC sought free agent options in the form of Jairo Riedewald and Patrick Bamford.
The Blades duo have made positive impressions since their arrivals. As such, the focus has quickly turned to talk over whether they will be staying beyond their current deals in January.
Image courtesy of: CRAIG BROUGH/REUTERS.
And, speaking to The Star, Sheffield United boss Wilder revealed positive indications over the futures of both players. He said: “I spoke to both boys, and they want to commit. Their representatives will obviously put the options to them, that they’ve got on the table.
“It has to be right from a lot of points from then. But the initial talk, between manager and player, is really positive. The vibe that is coming back, that they’re giving me, is that they would like the opportunity of staying. Then it’s over to other people to hopefully get the deal done.”
Big boost on Jairo Riedewald, Patrick Bamford’s Sheffield United futures
Sheffield United were not hesitant to spend in the summer transfer window. Japhet Tanganga is reported to have cost up to £10m, and fees were spent on deals for Mark McGuinness, Nils Zatterstrom, Tahith Chong, Alex Matos, Ehjie Ukaki and Mihail Polendakov too.
However, it has been Riedewald and Bamford – signed for nothing mid-season – who have been two of the more impactful signings.
Image courtesy of: CRAIG BROUGH/REUTERS.
Riedewald has become a key figure in the middle. He’s served as a much-needed defensive and physical presence alongside Sydie Peck, with his experience at a higher level evident in his performances.
As for Bamford, two goals in his four appearances equate to a goal every 87 minutes. He’s quickly proven he is still a scoring threat at the top of the pitch, so to keep him for the full campaign could be of huge importance.
Maintaining momentum in an improving Sheffield United group
Wilder will be eager to maintain that Sheffield United have a long way to go before they’re at the levels expected of them. A promotion push was the target this season, and SUFC are still down in 18th.
Sheffield United – Championship table
However, four consecutive wins with 13 goals scored has drastically improved the mood at Bramall Lane. They’re starting to show the standards they reached last season, especially in thumping a strong Stoke City side last Saturday.
Wilder will be determined to maintain the momentum they’re gaining, with Norwich City up next. Keeping Riedewald and Bamford will be key in doing so, as they will be tough players to replace if they do head for pastures new.
The indications over their futures seem overwhelmingly positive though. Riedewald has had interest while Bamford has answered questions over his early fitness, so keeping them both will be of huge value.
The focus now turns to getting deals done with both keen on staying put.