Sheffield United are understood to have shown interest in AFC Bournemouth defender Chris Mepham, according to The Star.
The 26-year-old is under contract with the Cherries until next summer and it doesn’t seem likely that the two parties will engage in extension talks, given he is on the periphery of the squad – starting just six Premier League games last season.
Mepham has registered 89 games in the Championship throughout his career as well as over 60 Premier League appearances. He is also a seasoned international footballer for Wales, having racked up 36 caps including in the World Cup and the EURO’s.
Mepham could join fellow Welsh international Kieffer Moore at Sheffield United, but the towering defender isn’t the only centre-back to have been linked with a move to Bramall Lane in recent days.
Blades linked with Harry Souttar
Sheffield United have renewed their interest in Leicester City defender Harry Souttar, who once cost the Foxes around £15 million.
The 25-year-old Australian international only made three Championship appearances for the Foxes last season. His exclusion from the squad to face Palermo last Friday suggests that new Leicester boss Steve Cooper does not see him as part of his plans.
United’s manager Chris Wilder, who tried to sign Souttar in the January transfer window, is once again pursuing the defender. Wilder’s continued interest likely indicates his high regard for Souttar, making a loan move to Sheffield United an attractive option for the player.
Sheffield United close to announcing loan signing
In other news, the Blades appear close to making a new signing in the coming days.
The 22-year-old brings significant Championship experience, having made 40 appearances for Stoke City last season, where he contributed four goals and five assists.
Hoever’s style of play – marked by high energy, athleticism, and effectiveness in attacking areas – aligns perfectly with Chris Wilder’s vision for his boyhood football club in the upcoming season.
According to FBref’s statistics comparing Hoever to other Championship full-backs from last season, he ranked in the 95th percentile for tackles and interceptions. He was reliable in one-on-one situations, placing him in the 87th percentile for success rate. He also excelled in aerial duels, ranking in the 68th percentile for win rate. Hoever was prolific in crossing, ranking in the 82nd percentile for total crosses and 69th for completed crosses.
Additionally, Hoever frequently took shots and created shooting opportunities for his teammates, ranking in the 80th percentile for total shots and 83rd for non-penalty goals. He also performed exceptionally well in terms of assists, ranking in the 87th percentile.
