Sheffield United have today announced the signing of Tunisian international Anis Slimane for an undisclosed fee. The 22-year-old has signed a three-year contract with the Blades. Contrary to the undisclosed fee, The Star previously claimed United have agreed a fee of less than £1m to acquire the midfielder.
Speaking for the first time as a Blade, Slimane referenced the work rate of himself and how Sheffield United as a club reflects the same philosophy:
“I like the culture of the club. I heard it is a hard-working club and that reminds me of myself. I love to work hard, and I love to give everything – leave everything out on the pitch. At this club, nothing is given, everything is worked for.”
Slimane has played in over 180 games in his club career, despite being 22 years of age. He has featured in the Europa League and Champions League Qualification games. Additionally, he has been capped 29 times by Tunisia scoring four goals. Two of those caps were achieved at last year’s World Cup in Qatar.
Paul Heckingbottom mentioned Slimane’s experience, despite being 22, when talking about his new signing for the first time:
“He’s 22 but someone with a lot of experience. He’s played a lot of first-team games, been to a World Cup and someone who has continually gone up the ladder in terms of his levels.”
The manager has monitored the progression of Slimane for quite a while, hinting that he would’ve liked to have signed the versatile midfielder sooner:
“Anis is someone we’ve known about since we first took the job here, really in that first window. We never really had the opportunity to do something until now and it has just coincided with his contract situation so the timing is really good for both of us.”
Anis Slimane has already linked up with the rest of the United squad as they prepare for the first preseason game against Chesterfield this Saturday.
United could have another signing on the way shortly. Bénie Traoré seemingly said his goodbyes to the Hacken supporters last night at their game against The New Saints.
