SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND - MAY 04: Ben Brereton Diaz of Sheffield United runs with the ball during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Nottingham Forest at Bramall Lane on May 04, 2024 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images) (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Sheffield United Announce Statement Signing

Ben Brereton Diaz has made a highly anticipated return to Sheffield United, rejoining the club for a second stint on loan, with the option to make the move permanent in the summer. 

This transfer has been warmly welcomed by United’s manager, Chris Wilder, who is excited to have the Chilean international back at Bramall Lane.

Brereton Diaz, who initially joined the Blades in January 2024, made a strong impression during his first period at the club, scoring six goals in 14 Premier League starts. Despite Sheffield United’s struggles in the top flight last season, the 25-year-old forward was a standout performer, providing a spark in attack and contributing significantly to the team’s efforts. 

Even though he played for the worst team in the league last term, Brereton-Diaz had a non-penalty xG of 0.43 per 90, which put him in the 70th percentile compared to other Premier League forwards. Additionally, he was a huge outlet in terms of progressing and creating, ranking in the 83rd percentile for progressive passes, 87th percentile for crosses into the box, 74th percentile for passes into the box, and 81st percentile for carries into the penalty area, via FBref.

His form in the Premier League earned him attention from other clubs, and in the summer, he made the move to Southampton for a substantial fee from La Liga side Villarreal.

While his time at Southampton has seen limited success, with just 10 Premier League appearances so far this season, Brereton Diaz has not lost his appeal to Wilder, who had kept close tabs on the forward. Wilder expressed his delight at securing the loan deal, emphasising the importance of bringing in a player with Brereton Diaz’s qualities.

Chris Wilder on Ben Brereton Diaz

Sheffield United players clap fans at Old Trafford.

“This is a great fit for everyone,” Wilder said, via the club’s website. “Ben will be an important player for us in the second half of the season. In a tough campaign, he was great for us last season, and we would have loved to have kept him, but the Southampton move was too good to turn down.”

Wilder further elaborated on the player’s qualities, noting the consistency, mentality, and experience that Brereton Diaz brings to the team. “We know what we are getting in terms of personality, culture, mentality, and ability. Experience and age were also important to us, and overall, it is just great for all parties.”

With this loan move, Brereton Diaz will look to rediscover his form at Sheffield United and play a pivotal role in their push for promotion to the Premier League. His return to the club is expected to provide much-needed firepower and depth to United’s attacking options, helping them in their bid to finish the season strongly.

As for the player himself, Brereton Diaz will be eager to make a positive impact once again, aiming to replicate the success he enjoyed during his first stint at the club. With the option for a permanent move looming in the summer, this is certainly very much a statement signing from the Blades.

Tags Ben Brereton-Diaz New Signing