Cameron Archer has successfully completed his move to Sheffield United and signed a four-year contract. The 21-year-old joins from Aston Villa in a deal worth £18m with Villa having a buy-back clause, which is mandatory if the Blades are to get relegated this season.
Archer scored 11 times in 20 appearances for Middlesbrough last season after making a loan switch in January. He also added six assists [FBref].
Here is what United’s new striker has said following confirmation of United’s eighth summer signing:
“Everyone is happy if they are playing football regularly. That’s something I want to do now. I think it was important to come here and look for Premier League football, that was key for me because I want to make that next step now and challenge myself. Hopefully I can do that here.
“Sheffield United have a long history of developing players in terms of playing and hopefully making better people as well.” [SUTV]
Paul Heckingbottom has also spoken after finally getting a proven goalscorer over the line. Heckingbottom originally identified Chuba Akpom as his number one choice, however, when Ajax came calling there was only going to be one outcome. Nevertheless, the gaffer is delighted to get Archer:
“There was a great opportunity for us to sign a young, exciting forward and one who showed a desire to join us. Cameron brings us pace, agility and a goalscoring record – we are looking forward to working with him.”
United’s new signing will be unveiled to the crowd before the game against Manchester City on Sunday, in a game where nobody expects the Blades to get a result.
