Blades to Make Huge Bid For Defender But Could Be Dealt Transfer Blow By Scottish Giants | OneFootball

Sheffield United are moving closer to securing the signing of Leicester City defender Harry Souttar, with the Blades preparing an improved offer worth around £10 million plus add-ons for the Australia international.

United have already seen a second bid, understood to be worth around £8 million including add-ons, rejected by Leicester. However, the Blades are not walking away from their long-standing defensive target, with an improved proposal now imminent as Chris Wilder looks to strengthen his options ahead of the new Championship campaign.

According to The Telegraph journalist John Percy, Sheffield United are preparing a staggering £10 million offer for the centre-back. The proposed bid would represent a significant increase on United’s previous attempts and could potentially force Leicester into making a decision on the player’s future. Crucially, Souttar has reportedly informed Leicester of his desire to leave the club and join Sheffield United.

The Blades have made Souttar one of their priority targets throughout the summer as Wilder looks to add further physicality, experience and quality to his defensive department. With United still looking to reshape their squad following a difficult 2025/26 campaign, bringing in a proven Championship defender is viewed as an important piece of business.

Harry Souttar’s Potential Return to Sheffield United Continues to Develop

Just days ago, journalist Pete O’Rourke reported that United had submitted a new and improved bid in the region of £8 million for the Leicester defender.

There had been some concern among the Sheffield United fanbase following Souttar’s involvement in Leicester’s EFL Cup first-round tie against Northampton Town at the King Power Stadium on Saturday.

The Australian started the match and completed the full game as the Foxes secured a narrow 1-0 victory. His involvement appeared to indicate that Leicester were not yet prepared to sanction his departure, particularly with the new season already underway.

However, the situation now appears to be changing rapidly. With Souttar believed to be pushing for a move to South Yorkshire and Sheffield United ready to increase their offer to around £10 million plus potential add-ons, there is growing optimism that an agreement can eventually be reached.

Souttar is A Favourite Among Blades Fans

Souttar spent the first half of the 2024/25 season on loan at Bramall Lane, quickly establishing himself as an important part of United’s defensive unit. During that spell, the 6ft6 defender made 21 appearances, starting 20 of those matches, and helped the Blades record an impressive 13 clean sheets.

Souttar’s physical presence is arguably his biggest asset. He provides an imposing figure at the back, is extremely difficult to beat in aerial situations and offers United a genuine threat from set pieces at the opposite end of the pitch. Additionally, he is excellent on the ball, showing composure under pressure and an ability to help beat the opposition press.

United’s willingness to push towards the £10 million mark demonstrates just how highly Wilder rates the defender. With Souttar also reportedly making his preference clear, the Blades could see him in a red and white shirt once more sooner rather than later.

Rangers Express Interest in Promising Scotsman

Meanwhile, there has also been movement surrounding Sheffield United striker Ryan Oné, with Rangers reportedly making contact over a potential deal.

Sky Sports journalist Luca Bendoni has reported that Rangers have made an approach for the forward following an injury to Chermiti, with the Scottish giants actively exploring the striker market.

Initial talks have taken place as Rangers assess their options, although it remains unclear at this stage whether their interest would result in a permanent transfer or a loan move.

Oné is highly thought of at Bramall Lane and remains regarded as a player with considerable potential. However, his limited involvement during Sheffield United’s pre-season campaign has led to some speculation among supporters.

The striker has not enjoyed the number of minutes many expected during the summer, prompting questions over whether the club could potentially be protecting him from injury while transfer interest develops behind the scenes.

For now, there is no indication that United are actively looking to sell Oné, but Rangers’ interest provides another situation for Wilder and the club to consider as the transfer window enters its final stages, especially if the Blades feel they can use some extra funds to invest in the squad.

But with the clock ticking down to the first Championship kick-off of the season at home against Birmingham City, the mood at Sheffield United is beginning to feel a lot more positive. Especially after the Blades announced the season-long loan deal for Kalvin Phillips.