Sheffield United, Birmingham City and Wolves in battle to sign Chelsea player | OneFootball

Sheffield United and Birmingham City both have their sights set on a deal with Chelsea

Sheffield United and Birmingham City are competing with Wolves for the signing of Harry McGlinchey from Chelsea.

According to Football Insider, the 18-year-old is available to sign this January as long as a sell-on clause is inserted into any potential deal.

The teenager has earned a reputation as a promising young talent in the Blues’ academy system, but there is no obvious and immediate pathway into the first team squad under Liam Rosenior.

This has led to speculation over his future this winter, with the youngster yet to make a single appearance at senior level for the London outfit.

McGlinchey has a contract with Chelsea until June 2027, but he could make his exit from Stamford Bridge as early as this month.

Sheffield United and Birmingham eye Chelsea starlet

Sheffield United and Birmingham are both hoping to seal a deal for McGlinchey before the market shuts on 2 February.

Chelsea are open to letting the player go in the winter window, but they are seeking a deal that will include a sell-on clause as part of the deal.

The Championship duo also face competition from Wolves, who are also looking to strengthen their defensive options before the end of the month.

It remains to be seen what the player’s preference is at this stage of his career, but the opportunity to play first team football will likely be key to his decision-making process regarding his next club.

Wolves are set to be relegated from the top flight this season unless they can significantly turn around their form.

Meanwhile, Birmingham and Sheffield United are both mid-table in the second division, but they are clinging onto their hopes of a top six push in 2026.

Chris Davies’ side are 13th following Tuesday night’s win over Sheffield Wednesday, while the Blades can move up from 17th if they earn a result against Southampton this evening in a 7.45pm kick-off.

Harry McGlinchey signing will be one for the future

McGlinchey has yet to make a single senior level appearance, so it’s unlikely he’ll go straight into the Sheffield United or Birmingham starting lineup, should he join.

However, he is a promising young star with plenty of potential, having already earned six caps at U19 level for the Ireland national team.

Whoever can most immediately offer him the best path to a first team place is likely to secure his signature, which should benefit Sheffield United and Birmingham.

A sell-on clause could also be a worthwhile concession in agreeing a deal with Chelsea if he can be signed at a relatively low cost.