The Blades are closing in on their sixth signing of the summer as it looks like Ki-Jana Hoever’s arrival is imminent, coming in on loan from Wolves. So why exactly are Sheffield United drawn to the Dutchman?
Chris Wilder is acquiring a highly capable right-back in the young Dutchman. The player excels not only in defence but also in the final third and build-up play, skills that are increasingly vital in modern football where full-backs often have the most touches on the pitch.
Hoever’s exceptional athleticism is another significant asset for this position. His pace and power enable him to neutralise threats in behind and make recovery runs, while also allowing him to advance down the wing to provide overlaps and underlaps.
At 22, he brings considerable Championship experience, having made 40 appearances for Stoke City last season. During his time there, he contributed four goals and five assists.
Ki-Jana Hoever vs Jayden Bogle
More than a week ago I produced some data visuals on my Twitter account where I compared a few full-backs with each other. One of those was Jayden Bogle (Player A) and the other was Ki-Jana Hoever (Player C), who we ended up getting linked with.
Here’s how the two compare below from both of their previous Championship campaigns.
Player A – Jayden Bogle
Player C – Ki-Jana Hoever
When you compare Hoever to United’s former right-wingback Jayden Bogle, they are quite different in terms of their strengths and playing style.
While Hoever rarely carries the ball, Bogle does so frequently. Conversely, Hoever often crosses the ball when the opportunity arises, whereas Bogle prefers engaging in combination play around the box to open up the defence. Despite these differences, both players are equally effective in the final third, whether creating chances for teammates or for themselves.
Sheffield United could capitalise on a successful loan spell
The 22-year-old Dutchman cost Wolverhampton Wanderers an initial £10 million according to Sky Sports, when he arrived from Liverpool four years ago. Since then, he has only made 25 appearances for them.
As it stands, the attacking full-back only has two years left on his contract at the Molineux, so there is potential for the Blades to swoop in, and get Hoever at a discounted price 12 months from now, if the loan spell is successful of course.
Writing on X, formerly Twitter, Wolves fan journalist George Lakin had this to say on Hoever’s potential transfer to the Blades.
“Ki-Jana Hoever to Sheffield United on loan would probably be one of the best possible moves from a Wolves perspective.
“It seems there’s no appetite for a permanent move, but Sheffield United are always in and around the promotion places. Should they bounce straight back – with Hoever performing well – funds will be there for a permanent move.
“Wolves won’t be looking for an excessive fee; the player is contracted until 2026, so will be entering final year this time next season.
“It potentially looks like the only way Wolves could recoup anything on a player who seemingly has no future at the club.”
In other news, Sheffield United have declared interest in AFC Bournemouth defender Chris Mepham.