Sheffield United’s transfer plans highlight how they won’t go to Hollywood – opinion
Sheffield United's English manager Chris Wilder gestures on the touchline during the English Premier League football match between Sheffield United and West Ham United at Bramall Lane in Sheffield, northern England on January 10, 2020. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)
Sheffield United have been soaring to new heights in the Premier League this season, as Chris Wilder’s side currently sit sixth in the table, above Wolverhampton Wanderers, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal. Despite rubbing shoulders with such esteemed company, there are no delusions of grandeur at Bramall Lane, and that doesn’t look likely to change anytime soon.
The remarkable aspect of the Blades rise to prominence though is that they have reached the elite level with a core group of players who have never operated in the upper segment of the footballing pyramid before.
Proof of that comes from the entire squad being valued at £105.03m; meanwhile, other sides such as the traditional superpowers of the division, are close to spending that fee on a single player. Despite their position in the Premier League offering the potential of a European adventure next term, the names Sheffield United have been linked with this January highlight they will be bucking the top six trend of Hollywood signings.
One suggestion is that the Blades are considering a move for Ipswich Town defender Luke Woolfenden, according to the Sheffield Star. The 21-year-old has been excelling at the heart of the Tractor Boys’ defence as they push for promotion to secure a Championship return and clearly, Wilder has seen room for him to develop into a Premier League level defender.
Their policy of searching down the divisions to focus on prospects who have been overlooked or have room for development has served Wilder incredibly well. In spite of the increased finances in the top-flight, the interest in Woolfenden is an indication Sheffield’s boss will not stray away from the methods that have got him there.
Living within their means, through astute investments and developing the players at their disposal is a model other Premier League clubs could learn from. Sheffield United are an example to all of how sticking to a carefully developed plan, with creative coaching, can garner success on a budget. While their revenue may be soaring in the Premier League, it appears they will continue to live well within their means, rather than breaking the bank to compete at the top end of the table.