Sheffield United reluctant to let star leave as Blades linked with Ecuador winger | OneFootball

Brentford are reportedly eyeing Sheffield United standout centre-back, Anel Ahmedhodzic, as they look to strengthen their defensive options before the end of the summer transfer window, as per David Ornstein.

The Bosnian international has emerged as a key target for the Bees, who have placed him on a shortlist of centre-back candidates that also includes Liverpool’s Sepp van den Berg and Burnley’s Dara O’Shea.

Brentford’s interest in Ahmedhodzic comes as no surprise. The 24-year-old has ball playing ability, which is what Thomas Frank wants from his defenders, and he has shown that he has the athleticism to sweep up danger beyond the defensive line.

His performances in the 2022/23 season were instrumental in the Blades’ promotion to the Premier League, but unfortunately his debut campaign in the top flight went terribly as he was part of a record breaking Premier League defence for all the wrong reasons having conceded over 100 goals.

Ahmedhodzic has started the first two games of the 2024/25 Championship season and he has continued to impress with his commanding presence and ability to read the game. His versatility, strong tackling, and aerial prowess have made him one of the most sought-after defenders in the Championship.

Sheffield United are reportedly reluctant to part ways with their star defender, viewing him as a key component of their promotion push, according to a report from Football Insider. The Blades are determined to return to the Premier League at the first time of asking, and losing a player of Ahmedhodzic’s calibre would be a significant blow to their ambitions.

Chris Wilder does have Leicester City loanee Harry Souttar as a ready replacement if Ahmedhodzic does leave, however, the Bosnian is seen as a much more versatile player and one that suits this new system of 4-2-3-1. He is also a perfect fit on the right of a back three if Wilder reverts to the old overlapping centre-back system at some point over the season.

The Blades will be hoping that their strong stance deters Brentford and any other potential suitors, allowing them to retain Ahmedhodzic for the crucial months ahead. Wolves are another Premier League team that rate him very highly but they’re in a sensitive financial predicament which will stop them from entering a bidding war.

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 03: Jeremy Sarmiento of Brighton & Hove Albion controls the ball during a pre-season friendly match between Queens Park Rangers and Brighton & Hove Albion at Loftus Road on August 03, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)

Sheffield United to challenge Burnley for Brighton winger

Meanwhile, Sheffield United and Burnley are both showing interest in Brighton & Hove Albion winger Jeremy Sarmiento. The report from Alan Nixon claims that the two Championship clubs want him on loan but the Blades could even attempt to buy the Ecuador international for approximately £6 million or £7 million.

Sarmiento scored five goals and made one assist during his loan spell at Ipswich Town last season. The 22-year-old started 12 times for Kieran McKenna’s side, making 28 sub appearances. His average minutes per game equated to 35 minutes.

If United were to sign Sarmiento he would fit in on the left wing which would likely push Gustavo Hamer into his more natural position of central midfield.