Sheffield United are set to make their fifth signing of the summer as promising Chelsea youngster Alfie Gilchrist will undergo his medical at the Blades over the next 24 hours.
According to Nizaar Kinsella, the defender was expected to travel up to Sheffield today as he prepares to sign for Chris Wilder’s team. As per the report, the 20-year-old has made a decision to snub other loan offers in favour of a move to Sheffield United because the chance to work under an experienced and successful EFL manager is too good to turn down.
Why Sheffield United want Alfie Gilchrist
Gilchrist has rapidly become a notable name among Chelsea’s defensive ranks. Since making his debut, the young defender has already featured 17 times in competitive matches for the Blues, marking his presence with a memorable first goal in a commanding 6-0 victory against Everton towards the end of last season.
What sets Gilchrist apart as a top prospect is his versatility. He is adept at playing both as a centre-back and as a right-back, a dual capability that is particularly valuable in modern football. This flexibility in positioning makes him an attractive target for clubs looking to bolster their defensive options with adaptable players
This makes him particularly appealing to managers like Chris Wilder, who are known for their pragmatic approach. Wilder, who has previously utilised a 5-3-2 formation with overlapping centre-backs to great effect, could find Gilchrist to be the perfect fit for this system if he reverts back to that. But what the Blades showed in pre-season is a clear identity to play in a 4-2-3-1 pressing system – Gilchrist can offer good cover at the back to stop counter-attacks given his natural defensive mindset, but he is still capable of offering support in possession.
Blades to improve right-back depth
United appeared close to signing another right-back on loan last week as Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Ki-Jana Hoever was set to be the club’s fifth acquisition of the window. However, that deal did not come to fruition and we have now learnt that the move collapsed due to the Dutchman having an injury issue, as per The Star.
Sheffield United are preparing to face off against Preston North End at Deepdale on Friday evening, and they’ll definitely feel more positive at kick-off if they can confirm the signing of Alfie Gilchrist. As of now Femi Seriki is the only fit right-back at the club, Wilder confirmed after the draw to Huddersfield Town that Jamie Shackleton will be out for around a month after suffering a contact injury against Rotherham United.
