Sheffield United and Colorado Rapids are ‘leading the race’ to sign Rob Holding from Crystal Palace in the summer transfer window.
The 29-year-old is entering the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park, but he is not in the plans of manager Oliver Glasner, so a summer move is on the cards for the defender, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Bramall Lane.
Holding made 11 appearances for the Blades, and he was on the bench as Sheffield United lost the play-off final to Sunderland in heartbreaking fashion.
Rob Holding transfer latest as Sheffield United eye deal for centre-back
Of course, a lot has changed at Sheffield United since then, with Ruben Selles having succeeded Chris Wilder in the dugout, but it seems he wants to bring Holding back to the club.
That’s after Sky Sports revealed that the Blades and Colorado Rapids are pushing to sign Holding, who is set to depart in the window.
The update states they are the two clubs leading the way for his signature, so it appears the player could have a big decision to make about his future.
Rob Holding’s career stats in all competitions (FotMob)
Years
Club
Division
Appearances
Goals
2014-2016
Bolton Wanderers
Championship
30
1
2015
Bury (loan)
League Two
1
0
2016-2023
Arsenal
Premier League
162
5
2023-
Crystal Palace
Premier League
1
0
2025
Sheffield United
Championship
11
0
Rob Holding would be a sensible addition for Sheffield United
Holding had a decent spell with the Blades last season, and whilst it was a small sample size, he showed enough to suggest he could do a job over the course of the campaign for a club that is targeting promotion.
At 29, the ex-Arsenal man has plenty of experience, a lot of which is in the top-flight, and he is a leader who would add some know-how to the dressing room.
Bringing in a centre-back has to be a priority for Sheffield United, even with the addition of Tyler Bindon, as there is a lack of depth in that department, and there are doubts about Anel Ahmedhodzic’s future considering his contract expires in 12 months’ time.
So, fans will be encouraged that the club are moving to sign Holding, and they will hope to see off competition from Colorado to bring him in.
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The 25-year-old had been linked with a Premier League move.
Ultimately, Holding is going to have to decide where he wants to go, and the chance to experience a new culture and league in America may appeal, but Sheffield United will hope he still wants to test himself in this country, and he could quickly become an important figure in Selles’ new-look side.