Former Gunner returns to Championship with Sheffield United | OneFootball

Former Arsenal academy defender Mark McGuinness signed for Sheffield United this week, with the Blades in desperate need of reinforcements.

Photo via David Price on Twitter

Sheffield United announced the signing of former Gunner Mark McGuinness on Monday, with McGuinness leaving Luton Town in a permanent transfer and signing a four-year contract with his new club.

“It has been a bit of a crazy window and obviously things can happen late, but Sheffield United has been a club which has been in my mind ever since I heard that there was some interest,” McGuinness said.

“There’s one thing for sure, and you can ask anyone in the game, whenever people talk about Bramall Lane, they’ll always mention the fans and the atmosphere.

“I remember walking down the tunnel and you hear the music and the pre-match anthem; it’s a great feeling. The stadium is always packed, it is a good atmosphere, and I know the club is well supported, so with all that in mind, I think this club is a perfect match.”

Photo via LutonTown.co.uk

It’s only been a year since McGuinness’ last transfer to join Luton, with the player leaving Cardiff City for a fee in the region of £10m. Arsenal took £2m of that through a sell-on clause.

The 24-year-old has played plenty of football since then, making 51 appearances for Luton. But with the club suffering relegation to the Championship, this transfer was McGuinness’ chance to return to the English second tier immediately.

Unfortunately, McGuinness joins Sheffield United in a similar situation, with the Blades rock bottom of the Championship after four games and four defeats. They certainly need their new signing to make a fast start.

Photo by Stephen McCarthy / Sportsfile via Getty Images

Sheffield United return from the international break with a match away to Ipswich Town, who have also struggled in 2025/26 so far. The former Premier League side have three draws and one defeat in four matches, leaving them 20th.

Both of the two clubs will be desperate to get their first win of the new campaign on September 12th.