Blades Looking to Add New Shot Stopper to Squad; What Does That Mean to Goalkeeper Depth? | OneFootball

Sheffield United are reportedly in the market for a third-choice goalkeeper this summer as Chris Wilder continues to reshape his squad ahead of the new Championship campaign.

According to journalist Darren Witcoop, both Sheffield United and Bolton Wanderers are exploring a move for veteran goalkeeper Asmir Begovic following his departure from Leicester City earlier this summer. The 39-year-old is currently weighing up his next move after becoming a free agent, and his vast experience could make him an attractive option for clubs seeking reliable cover between the posts.

Of course, this report means Ivo Grbic’s future at Bramall Lane is once again in doubt.

Ivo Grbic Set to Depart Sheffield United Once More

The Croatian goalkeeper will likely available for either a permanent transfer or another loan move after spending the last two seasons in Turkey. Having fallen completely out of Chris Wilder’s plans, Grbic no longer has a pathway back into the first-team picture, with Michael Cooper firmly established as Sheffield United’s undisputed number one.

Moving Grbic on would also make financial sense. The former Atletico Madrid goalkeeper remains one of the club’s highest earners despite not featuring in Wilder’s plans, and removing his wages from the books would provide greater flexibility as United continue to strengthen the squad.

With Cooper expected to start matches this season, the search for another goalkeeper is less about finding competition and more about strengthening the depth chart.

Can the Blades Have Both Begovic And Davies?

However, the interest in Begovic does raise an interesting question over the future of Adam Davies. Davies has been a dependable servant for Sheffield United over the past few seasons, accepting his role as backup goalkeeper while always being ready when called upon. Last season highlighted exactly why having an experienced number two is so important. When Michael Cooper suffered a season-ending injury in February, Davies stepped into the side and provided valuable experience during a difficult period.

If United are now actively pursuing another senior goalkeeper, though, it naturally creates uncertainty around Davies’ position at the club. It is possible Wilder is simply looking to add a third experienced option while retaining Davies as Cooper’s deputy.

Equally, the club could feel that bringing in Begovic represents an opportunity to add even greater experience to the goalkeeping department, potentially allowing Davies to move elsewhere in search of regular football. Begovic’s CV certainly speaks for itself. The Bosnian international has enjoyed a distinguished career spanning almost two decades, representing clubs including Portsmouth, Stoke City, Chelsea, Bournemouth, Everton, Queens Park Rangers and Leicester City. He has also played in European competition and won the Premier League during his time at Chelsea.

While he is now entering the twilight years of his playing career at 39, goalkeepers often continue well into their late thirties, particularly in supporting roles where experience can be just as valuable as athleticism. That experience could prove invaluable for Michael Cooper.

Although Cooper has firmly established himself as one of the Championship’s standout goalkeepers, he is still only 26 years old. Working alongside someone with Begovic’s pedigree could only benefit him.

Begovic has experienced virtually every situation imaginable throughout his career, from relegation battles to title-winning campaigns and European football. Having that knowledge available on the training ground every day could be a significant asset for both Cooper and Sheffield United’s younger goalkeepers.