Stockport County to seal surprise deal for ex-Sheffield United star Oli Norwood | OneFootball

The Hatters are set to make a real coup in their bid for back to back promotions with the signing of the experienced EFL midfielder

Stockport County are poised to sign experienced former Sheffield United midfielder Oliver Norwood on a free transfer, according to Football Insider.

Hatters boss Dave Challinor is set to sign the EFL veteran in their bid for back-to-back promotions in what has been an upwards trajectory for the League One side.

After training with Stockport in pre-season, the 33-year-old is set to sign and play a vital role at Edgeley Park.

The experienced midfielder provides versatility with an array of talent in midfield, as a defensive option or has the ability to free-roam in the middle of the park.

Stockport are keen to sign a midfielder with the experience that could propel them to the Championship.

After 588 career games, Norwood would certainly fit the bill for Challinor's side.

Norwood's six-year tenure with the Blades ended after the Yorkshire outfit suffered a disappointing relegation from the Premier League.

The midfielder played the least number of games out of any season he's had with the Blades, with 27 outings under Chris Wilder, and took a major slip down the pecking order, foreshadowing his impending departure.

Previously, Norwood has had a strong EFL pedigree, playing for the likes of Fulham, Brighton, Reading, Huddersfield, Coventry and Scunthorpe United.

Norwood's career started through the Manchester United academy, but after never getting his chance at Old Trafford, he's shone in a brilliant 12-year career.

The Hatters handed Norwood, and former Premier League striker Dwight Gayle, trials in their pre-season fixture versus Blackburn Rovers.

A stature such as Norwood's in the team for Stockport will only heighten their chances of yet another promotion. Challinor has enjoyed two promotions in his time with the Hatters and adding Norwood's experience of two Championship promotions, sounds like a recipe for success.

Stockport have had a busy transfer window with 14 new additions to an ever-growing squad, Norwood's capture would top it all off.

The Greater Manchester side have enjoyed a brilliant start to life back in League One after a 100% win record, and are yet concede in the third tier. The 33-year-old can add his defensive prowess to continue to keep the goals out.

Challinor's ambition is to keep this club going up the leagues and won't miss out on his chance to sign Norwood.

Norwood can help propel Stockport to the Championship

His experience speaks volumes, but coming straight from the Premier League is an incredible move for the veteran.

Norwood was in a Sheffield United team who were at one point dubbed to get Champions League in the 2019/20 season, giving Stockport fans even more reason to get excited.

He looked promising in their pre-season encounter against Blackburn and could certainly become a fan favourite at Edgeley Park.

Competition will be high in County's midfield with Lewis Bate and Callum Camps flourshing so far in Challinor's system, so it might not be a case of Norwood's involvement straight away, although County fans will be eager to see him involved.

Stockport have been tipped for a successful season in League One, and have the chance to achieve a remarkable three promotions in four seasons.

With Norwood's presence, the sky is the limit for the Hatters.