Sheffield United continue to be linked with Everton defender Mason Holgate over a potential loan move. A report from Football Insider claims that Southampton, Leeds United and Nottingham Forest are also interested in the 26-year-old.
The Blades are currently light in defence, and Holgate would provide cover for the right side of the back three as well as the right-wingback position. United have Anel Ahmedhodzic and Chris Basham for the right centre-back depth, but they only have Jack Robinson and John Egan as the other senior central defenders.
To add, George Baldock is the only senior right-wingback that has taken part in pre-season matches as Jayden Bogle has had to sit out because of swelling in his knee.
Rhys Norrington-Davies is still sidelined from last season’s hamstring tear, but when he comes back he will likely compete for the left centre-back role, rather than left-wingback.
The only issue with Holgate is his wage at Everton, which Football Insider is quoting that it’s £72k a week. This will be a stumbling block for United, and the Championship clubs that have expressed interest in him. It will be difficult for Paul Heckingbottom’s side to negotiate a favourable wage split with Everton; they will not want to be aiding a Premier League rival.
