Should the Blades Take A Look at 28-year-old Free Agent? – Opinion | OneFootball

Sheffield United remain in the market for attacking reinforcements this summer, with Chris Wilder keen to strengthen his options out wide ahead of the new Championship campaign.

While a number of names have already been linked with a move to Bramall Lane, the Blades’ approach could shift towards experienced additions for minimal cost.

Over the last 24 hours, one of Sheffield United’s reported winger targets appears to have slipped away. Lewis Dobbin is now expected to complete a move to Southampton from Aston Villa in a deal worth around £9 million. The 23-year-old had been linked with the Blades earlier this summer, but the Saints look set to win the race for his signature.

One name that has emerged in recent days is Rabbi Matondo. The 25-year-old Welsh international is reportedly training with Sheffield United as he looks to earn a contract ahead of the new season. Matondo is available on a free transfer after leaving Norwegian side Brann and would represent a low-cost addition with plenty of pace and versatility.

Capable of playing on either flank, Matondo has enjoyed a varied career since bursting onto the scene as one of Wales’ brightest young prospects. Having previously been on the books at Manchester City’s academy before earning a move to Bundesliga side Schalke, expectations were high that he would develop into one of Britain’s most exciting wide players. Although his career has not quite reached those heights, he still possesses attributes that could suit United’s style of football.

The fact that Matondo is already reportedly training with the Blades suggests the club are taking a closer look before committing to a deal. It is a sensible approach, particularly with a player who has experienced both injury setbacks and inconsistent spells throughout his career.

Could Sheffield United Consider Karlan Grant

Another intriguing option who could fit a similar profile is former West Bromwich Albion attacker Karlan Grant.

The 28-year-old officially became a free agent this summer after West Brom opted not to extend his contract, bringing an end to a five-year stay at The Hawthorns. While Grant endured an injury-disrupted 2024/25 campaign, he still managed to score four Championship goals despite making just 17 league starts.

Looking beyond last season’s statistics paints a more encouraging picture. Across his previous three Championship campaigns, Grant scored 16 league goals while often operating from a wide position rather than as an out-and-out striker. His most productive season came in 2021/22, when he found the net 18 times and contributed six assists, demonstrating the attacking quality that made him one of the division’s most dangerous forwards.

Although Grant has not consistently replicated those numbers in recent years, his experience at Championship level cannot be overlooked. With well over 250 senior appearances to his name and a proven record of scoring goals in England’s second tier, he could offer Sheffield United valuable depth, leadership and versatility across the front line.

The Blades Should Consider Smart Approach to Wingers This Summer

Like Matondo, Grant was once regarded as one of English football’s brightest young talents after progressing through Charlton Athletic’s academy. While neither player has perhaps fulfilled the lofty expectations placed upon them during their early careers, both remain at an age where they can still make an important impact, particularly in a competitive Championship environment.

With Sheffield United expected to manage their budget carefully this summer, free agents naturally become attractive options. Rather than spending significant transfer fees on players carrying similar levels of risk, the Blades could instead assess both Matondo and Grant over an extended trial period before making any permanent commitment.