Sheffield United must eye Plymouth Argyle transfer hijack - Patrick Bamford may love it | OneFootball

Plymouth Argyle have the kind of player Chris Wilder would love at Sheffield United, and Patrick Bamford may benefit just as much from a transfer...

A number of League One players could improve Sheffield United's chances in the Championship next season, including one player from Plymouth Argyle.

Chris Wilder and Sheffield United’s recruitment drive this summer feels like it should be centered on one key objective: injecting freshness and long-term thinking into their side. While there is no shortage of experience at Bramall Lane, which has diminished as former Wilder favourites have been let go, there is still a need for some more youthful energy in their ranks.

For example, there is perhaps a growing sense that the current attacking options are either short-term fixes or players yet to fully convince at Championship level. Others, like Danny Ings, are on the decline at their age, despite also scoring against Hull City on Saturday.

Wilder has never been shy of bringing in new strikers or rotating his current pool of striking options. He often favours competition and tactical flexibility for a demanding campaign. However, the likes of Tom Cannon, Danny Ings, and Tyrese Campbell do not necessarily scream long-term continuity or have flattered to deceive.

Lorent Tolaj is the ideal long-term replacement for Patrick Bamford

Even if each brings something different to the table, their attention should turn towards a younger and upwardly mobile option. He is one that is currently making serious waves further down the pyramid. With a prolific return this season and clear signs of development, this is a player whose trajectory is of a Championship player.

Step forward Lorent Tolaj of Plymouth Argyle. The 16 League One goals (20 in all competitions across 35 appearances) in the 2025/26 campaign underline just how effective the 24-year-old has become in the final third. His performances have not gone unnoticed either, with Championship clubs circling Tolaj, as well as Scottish giants Celtic.

The names of the sort of clubs credited with strong interest highlight the level Tolaj is already hitting. This is exactly the type of situation where Sheffield United should be looking to act decisively and, if necessary, hijack a deal if Celtic and co. make their move.

Tolaj looks tailor-made already for the step-up. He could yet do that with Plymouth under Tom Cleverley, where his development over the last few years has gone to another level altogether. He is not simply a poacher thriving on lower-league defending; there is intelligence to his movement in behind and a willingness to link play.

These are traits that often separate those who merely score goals in League One from those who can sustain it at a higher level. Crucially, there are some stylistic similarities to Patrick Bamford, and not just because they are both left-footed. Like Bamford, Tolaj is comfortable operating as a focal point, bringing others into play, but while still offering a consistent goal threat by running the channels.

For a Sheffield United side that could benefit from a more cohesive attacking structure, that profile is particularly appealing this summer. He is also under the age of 25 and with resale value, which has to be something they look to add more of in June and beyond.

Tolaj scored 25 goals in the National League two seasons ago for Aldershot, 15 (with nine assists) in League Two last season for Port Vale, and has 20 goals this term in League One for Vale and Argyle. He is primed to play at a higher level yet again in 2026/27.

Why Lorent Tolaj fits Sheffield United perfectly

From Bamford’s perspective, this is a move that would likely be welcomed rather than a frustrating one of feeling replaced. Despite his strong goal return, the veteran forward is no longer at a stage in his career where he can be expected to shoulder the burden across a relentless Championship season.

Instead, having a younger striker capable of sharing that responsibility — and eventually succeeding him — would allow for better squad management and rotation. It would also align perfectly with Wilder’s preference for plenty of depth in attacking areas. Deploying two forwards is not uncommon in his system, too.

The possibility of combinations involving Tolaj alongside Bamford, Cannon, Campbell, or even Ings offers genuine variety. Different partnerships could be utilised depending on opposition, form, and fitness, and it could create a more unpredictable and adaptable frontline akin to his 2018/19 team.

In truth, this feels like a market opportunity for a number of clubs regarding the Plymouth ace, but the Blades should head the queue. He is a player on the incline in terms of his career trajectory and development, already attracting interest, and yet still attainable before his value inevitably climbs further.

If Sheffield United are serious about building a squad capable of both immediate impact and long-term progression, then stepping into this race is essential. Tolaj may not yet be a household name but all the indicators suggest he soon could be. And if the Blades move quickly, Bramall Lane might just be the perfect stage for him.