Sheffield United Exploring Potential Move For 22-year-old As Foreign Targets Discussed For January | OneFootball

Sheffield United are exploring a potential loan move for Liverpool midfielder Tyler Morton as they look to mitigate the impact of losing young prospect Oliver Arblaster to a potentially season-ending knee injury, per Alan Nixon.

The report from Nixon also states that the Blades have been monitoring targets in the foreign market, however, they will need to sell players in order for these plans to be properly pursued.

The injury has left the Blades with a significant void in their midfield. Manager Chris Wilder has emphasised the need for short-term reinforcements, especially given the club’s thin squad depth.

Blades Targeting Liverpool Midfielder Tyler Morton

Tyler Morton, 22, has already proven his ability to thrive in the Championship, having impressed during loan spells with Blackburn Rovers and Hull City. His technical skills, composure, and ability to dictate play make him an ideal candidate for Wilder’s system. Despite his capabilities, Morton has found opportunities limited at Liverpool this season, which has led to speculation about a potential move away from Anfield.

The move would offer Morton another chance to develop his game while providing Sheffield United with much-needed midfield depth for the final half of the season. If the deal materialises, Morton could slot seamlessly into the double pivot alongside Vinicius Souza, offering both creativity and defensive stability.

Arblaster’s absence has forced Wilder to rethink his midfield options. While Gustavo Hamer could revert to his more natural deep-lying role, the battle for a starting spot now primarily falls to Tom Davies and Sydie Peck. Outside of those two, Jamie Shackleton is the only remaining central midfielder in the first-team.

Peck has looked very solid in his appearances this season. And the Blades recently got Davies back from injury, scoring the winner in the recent win over Sunderland. But whilst United have quality midfield players to choose from, their depth is extremely limited.

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 01: Oliver Arblaster of Sheffield United and Moussa Sissoko of Watford during the Sky Bet Championship match between Sheffield United FC and Watford FC at Bramall Lane on September 01, 2024 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)

What Sheffield United Manager Said About Oliver Arblaster Injury and January Signings

Speaking about Arblaster’s injury, Wilder recently said, “We’ll just take it month by month. He certainly won’t play until after Christmas. If we get him back before the end of the season that’s great, and if not, he’ll be ready for next year.”

Wilder has acknowledged the importance of strengthening the squad in January. While the club is also monitoring foreign midfield options, budget constraints and squad vacancies remain hurdles for such signings. The Blades still have two domestic loan slots available, making a move for Morton both practical and financially viable.

“We need to strengthen, especially with losing [Oliver] Arblaster,” Wilder said in a press conference. “Everybody suffers injuries, but it’s important that we have a strong group and a strong bench to cope.”

This is a tricky month for everybody in English football given the congested fixture list –  Sheffield United play eight times in five weeks, so their depth will be put to the test even more so across the festive period.