Sheffield United have finally got a new goalkeeper over the line; the Blades have been chasing Michael Cooper for several weeks but now they can confirm they have signed him to a four-year deal.
Cooper, 24, was up in Sheffield last weekend to watch his then former side Plymouth Argyle lose 4-0 to his now Steel City rivals Sheffield Wednesday. After that game he travelled back down to Plymouth before eventually making his way back up north to be a spectator at Bramall Lane in their victory over Wrexham in the Carabao Cup as well as signing off on his transfer to the Blades.
Michael Cooper on his switch to the Blades
Speaking to SUTV for the very first time Cooper exclaimed, “It feels brilliant that we’ve got the move over the line and I’m excited to get started.
“The manager couldn’t speak highly enough of the club, the fanbase, the ambition, the squad – it was all very attractive for me to make a decision to come here. This is a huge opportunity in front of me, I have had a lot of great memories at Argyle but when an opportunity like Sheffield United presents itself, it is almost impossible to say no.”
Chris Wilder delighted to get a new shot-stopper for Sheffield United
It’s been no secret to anyone that Chris Wilder wanted a new goalkeeper this summer, not just one of quality but one United can hopefully rely on for the long-term, and Wilder is delighted to be making yet another marquee signing.
“Michael has been one of our major targets, which is why we have persevered on this deal and he was very keen to join.
“He’s young at 24, but with over 150 games behind him, so there’s experience there too. He’s a winner, as proven by the role he played in getting Plymouth into this division, and he now has Championship experience behind him too.
“I want to extend my thanks to those above who have funded and sanctioned this deal. I know the window is still open, but I think everyone can see now that our patience has paid off with the quality of the individuals we have brought to the football club,” he told the club’s official website.
Cooper could be in line to make his debut this Saturday afternoon when the Blades host Queens Park Rangers for their first home game back in the Championship. United will also be hoping to have Jesurun Rak-Sakyi available for that clash with the promising Crystal Palace winger due to complete his loan switch to Sheffield United imminently in what will be his second loan move of his career.
