Chris Wilder Expects Transfer Activity to “Accelerate” as Sheffield United Man Linked With Shock Move Abroad | OneFootball

We’re now a couple of weeks into the January transfer window and Sheffield United have already made a couple of early moves as they look to strengthen their push towards the play-offs.

The Blades’ first piece of business saw Ki-Jana Hoever arrive on a short-term loan from Wolves, adding much-needed depth and athleticism at right-back. United have been light in that area for much of the campaign, and Hoever’s arrival gives Chris Wilder another option during a demanding second half of the season.

The Dutchman was thrown straight in at the deep end, making his debut in Sunday’s FA Cup third-round tie at Bramall Lane, a game that ultimately ended in shock defeat to League Two Mansfield Town.

Despite the disappointment of the result, there was still a moment of positivity on the day, and it came before a ball had even been kicked. Just an hour or two ahead of kick-off, Patrick Bamford put pen to paper on a new 18-month deal with the Blades, extending a stay that has already proven to be an inspired piece of business.

The striker has hit the ground running since arriving in South Yorkshire, netting five goals in ten league appearances, and he marked his new contract in the best possible way by finding the net against Nigel Clough’s side.

Bamford’s early impact has added quality and experience to United’s forward line, and his goal-scoring touch could be pivotal as the season enters its final few months.

Sheffield United Boss Wants New Signings

Speaking after the Mansfield game to BBC Sport, Wilder talked about what he expects from the remainder of the transfer window, and it sounds as though further movement is likely before United’s next league outing against Charlton.

“Yeah they need to,” Wilder said when asked about potential incomings and outgoings. “We need to work hard and maybe some players that played today have not helped their cause. Certainly some of the younger players need to go out and play because the squad is too bloated. I think it will accelerate [after this weekend].”

Those comments suggest that while one or two additions could still arrive, trimming the squad is also a priority. Loan moves for younger players appear especially likely, with game time at a premium in a crowded group, and we’ve already seen Louie Marsh sign for Scottish Premiership side Falkirk until the end of the season.

Chris Wilder Brushes Transfer Links Aside

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 09: Harrison Burrows of Sheffield United looks dejected following the Sky Bet Championship match between Sheffield United and Norwich City at Bramall Lane on December 09, 2025 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Away from Bramall Lane, speculation has also begun to swirl around Harrison Burrows. The left-back, who was a standout performer last season, has been linked with a surprise move to Turkey, with Trabzonspor reportedly interested.

Burrows has found himself playing second fiddle to Sam McCallum for much of the current campaign, with McCallum emerging as one of United’s most consistent performers.

Wilder, however, was quick to play down the rumours. “If there’s a bid people want to tell me about and I have an input in I’ll be told and give my opinion,” he said. “No one has told me anything so as far as I’m concerned Harrison was great last season and has a fight on with Sammy, who has been one of our better players this season, to get back into the team and he has to deal with that fight.

“He’s not come to see me that he wants away and I’ve not been told from above that anything is being considered. There’s always noise from agents and clubs and this that and the other. As far as I’m concerned H is here and he’s going to be part of the group going forward.”