Sheffield United: £5m-rated African midfielder on Chris Wilder transfer radar | OneFootball

Sheffield United's January transfer plans are already beginning to take shape

Sheffield United are keen on signing Elfsborg midfielder Timothy Ouma in the upcoming January transfer window.

According to a report from Alan Nixon via Patreon, the Blades have their sights set on the 20-year-old as they look to strengthen in the middle of the pitch.

The South Yorkshire outfit’s financial situation remains somewhat uncertain, although prospective new owner Steve Rosen has moved one step closer to taking over the club.

The completion of the takeover could lead to Chris Wilder being backed during the winter market when 2025 arrives, and Ouma appears to be one of the targets that United are looking into ahead of that.

Sheffield United interested in Elfsborg midfielder Timothy Ouma amid Gus Hamer claim

Sheffield United are eyeing a move for Ouma in the January transfer window, and that move is more likely to happen if Gus Hamer is cashed in on.

Ouma is reportedly attracting interest from the Premier League as well off the back of his impressive performances in the Swedish top flight in 2024.

The young Kenyan has made 22 appearances in the Allsvenskan, contributing one goal and one assist, and it is understood that Elfsborg have placed a £5 million asking price on the midfielder ahead of potential interest in the winter.

While Sheffield United’s finances are far from perfect, it is believed that the sale of Will Osula to Newcastle United for £10 million has helped give the Yorkshire side funds to spend in January.

A loan has reportedly been taken out by the club against the next installment owed by the Premier League team, with the Blades aiming to spend that straight away to improve Wilder’s side amid their promotion push.

Sheffield United’s promotion push

Sheffield United are aiming to gain promotion straight back to the Premier League at the first attempt.

Wilder’s side find themselves in the mix for automatic promotion as we approach the November international break.

However, they face stiff competition from the likes of Sunderland, Leeds United and Burnley for a top two spot.

The January window could prove a crucial period for all clubs, as it gives them the chance to make improvements to their side for the second half of the campaign.

Timothy Ouma signing shows Sheffield United are ready for all eventualities

In an ideal world, Sheffield United would be able to sign new players in January without needing to sell stars like Hamer.

However, given there is likely to be speculation over the Dutchman’s future, it is at least promising that the Championship club has a plan in place in case he leaves.

Ouma has made a strong impression so far this season, and has even earned some European football experience with Elfsborg.

A £5 million move for the 20-year-old in January could prove a smart move long-term, even if it comes with the short-term pain of losing Hamer.