Sheffield United has expressed a strong interest in securing the services of Alfie Gilchrist permanently, according to the Standard. The 19-year-old Chelsea defender is regarded as a promising talent and is currently on Chelsea’s preseason tour in the USA.
Gilchrist is hoping for a potential breakthrough into first-team football at a Premier League club in the upcoming season. However, he also finds himself with a tempting offer from his current club to extend his contract at Stamford Bridge – his existing contract expires next summer.
As the captain of Chelsea’s Under-21s team, Gilchrist’s ability has not gone unnoticed, and he is currently honing his skills alongside Mauricio Pochettino’s 30-man squad in the United States.
Chelsea is fully aware of the youngster’s talents and is eager to tie him down to a new deal before considering a suitable loan move for his development.
Gilchrist is keen on the idea of going on loan to experience men’s football, which he believes will play a crucial role in furthering his growth as a player. The success and quality of this loan stint could prove decisive in determining whether he will remain with Chelsea in the future.
Last season Sheffield United helped the progression of two Manchester City youngsters, James McAtee and Tommy Doyle, both of which had crucial roles in the team towards the back half of the campaign. With the pair having a successful loan spell, this holds the Blades in high esteem when declaring interest in young Premier League players.
