Exclusive: Sheffield United sent clear Michael Cooper warning by Sky Sports pundit as Everton plot deal | OneFootball

Lee Hendrie says losing Michael Cooper to Everton would be a “massive blow” for Sheffield United after standout Championship season.

Everton's interest in signing Michael Cooper as backup to Jordan Pickford has sparked strong reactions, and Sky Sports pundit Lee Hendrie believes losing the goalkeeper would be a "massive blow" for Sheffield United.

After arriving from Plymouth Argyle, the 25-year-old enjoyed a standout first season at Bramall Lane, helping the Blades reach the play-off final with an impressive 21 clean sheets in 43 Championship appearances.

Everton eye Cooper to strengthen goalkeeping depth

As per reports from Alan Nixon via his Patreon, the Toffees are plotting a summer swoop for the in-form shot-stopper, with David Moyes keen to bolster his goalkeeping department ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.

With Asmir Begovic and Joao Virginia both set to leave the club this summer, Cooper has reportedly emerged as a prime candidate to deputise for England number one Pickford.

However, despite Everton's interest, reports suggest Cooper himself may be reluctant to accept a move that would see him become a back-up keeper at this stage of his career.

Lee Hendrie: "A massive blow" for the Blades

Speaking exclusively to Football League World, Sky Sports pundit Lee Hendrie was full of praise when asked about whether it would be a blow for the Blades.

"Michael Cooper at Sheffield United has had a great season. I really think that he's had a brilliant season," Hendrie said. "For him, obviously looking at Everton taking him as backup for Jordan Pickford, it would be a massive blow if Sheffield United lost him."

"I think he's going to go on to bigger and better things, and the Premier League is definitely his standard. He is a very, very good goalkeeper. So yes, it would be a massive blow for the Blades if they lost him. It would be difficult to replace someone with his quality."

Cooper's Premier League potential extends beyond Everton

Though Cooper may not unseat Pickford at Everton anytime soon, his performances suggest he's capable of starting in the top-flight, and rival clubs who can offer top-flight football and a starting role will surely be monitoring the situation.

With three years left on his deal after signing a four-year deal last summer, and no urgent need to sell, Sheffield United remain in a strong position. But the goalkeeper's ambition, coupled with Everton's Premier League pull, makes the potential transfer saga worth watching closely over the coming weeks.