Sheffield United Set to Sign Promising Malmo Defender As Scottish International Right-back Linked With Blades | OneFootball

There’s been plenty of talk about the lack of signings for Sheffield United so far in the transfer window. However, that may all be about to change soon.

One of United’s biggest priorities this window remains in defence. With gaps at both centre-back and right-back, the club has been linked with several options of late.

Sheffield United Finally Set to Get Some Defensive Players in

DORTMUND, GERMANY – NOVEMBER 05: Max Johnston of SK Sturm Graz warms up prior to the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD4 match between Borussia Dortmund and SK Sturm Graz at BVB Stadion Dortmund on November 05, 2024 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

According to The Star, the Blades have invited former Burnley and Brentford centre-back Ben Mee to train with the squad with a view to signing him.

The 35-year-old, who boasts over 400 appearances in English football, is currently a free agent after leaving Brentford this summer. United are weighing up whether the veteran defender could bring much-needed leadership and depth to a youthful backline.

Meanwhile, United have struck an agreement with Swedish side Malmo for Nils Zatterstrom. Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano reports the deal is worth £2.85 million plus add-ons, with the centre-back expected to complete his move in the coming days.

The 20-year-old is highly rated in Scandinavia and is seen as a solid player for the future. Zatterstrom has started seven games in the Allsvenskan this term, adding another three substitute appearances, and has helped Malmo keep a couple of clean sheets.

Scottish international Max Johnston is also on the Blades’ radar. The 21-year-old right-back, currently at Sturm Graz, has already attracted offers from Derby and Watford, both of which were turned down. Reports from EFL Analysis suggest the Austrian club have already rejected bids of £1.4m and £1.6m, holding out for a higher fee.

Johnston is also attracting interest from Italy, but Sheffield United are believed to be seriously considering a move. The Scotsman has already played three games in the new Austrian Bundesliga and has bagged a goal.

Selles Has Been Short-handed So Far As Sheffield United Manager

Ruben Selles instructing Sheffield United players in training session. (Image Credit: Sheffield United Football Club – X.com).

Regarding signings, Ruben Selles recently told the media that the “process has not been good enough”.

He added: “We talked about three reinforcements at the start of the market, now it’s five. We’ve not been able to sign anyone else for different circumstances, and everyone has their part of the blame. There won’t be any signings before the weekend.”

He proceeded to stress the need for experienced additions to steady the young squad, particularly at the back: “We have lost a lot of experience at the [Championship] level and need to replace that. If there’s room for a young talent we’ll analyse it, but the priority is players who can make an immediate impact.”

After weeks of very little happenings at S2 on the transfer front, it appears the board have finally begun to get some business done for Ruben Selles after leaving him short-handed in the opening couple of weeks of the new campaign.