Tom Cannon (left (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)) and Lewis Koumas (Right (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images))

Sheffield United Make “Big Statement” Signing

Sheffield United have bolstered their attacking ranks with the January signing of Republic of Ireland international Tom Cannon. The striker, who joins from Premier League side Leicester City, has signed a long-term contract until 2029, with the club holding an option for an additional year.

Cannon’s arrival follows a standout loan spell at Stoke City during the first half of the season, where the 22-year-old scored 11 goals in all competitions. United reportedly paid Leicester City a guaranteed £10 million for the striker, with an additional £3 million in performance-based add-ons.

The move comes as part of an ambitious transfer window for the Blades, who earlier secured the signature of fellow international forward Ben Brereton Diaz. Manager Chris Wilder expressed his excitement about Cannon’s arrival, calling it a “big statement” from the club’s ownership.

“This signing underlines the ambition of the club,” Wilder said. “Tom is a young striker with plenty of potential, but he also has valuable experience at this level. I’ve been a fan of his for a while, and I’m thrilled to have him on board as part of our long-term vision.”

“This significant signing is a collaboration of the work of the recruitment team, our own eye and the data we have, because Tom is right up there with his stats – he is also the style of centre forward we believe will boost the squad. A number of aspects have come together and the result is we have another very good player as we embark on the second half of the season,” he added.

Is Tom Cannon The Real Deal?

Sheffield United have bolstered their attacking ranks with the January signing of Republic of Ireland international Tom Cannon.
LUTON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 10: Tom Cannon of Stoke City moves away from Daiki Hashioka during the Sky Bet Championship match between Luton Town FC and Stoke City FC at Kenilworth Road on December 10, 2024 in Luton, England. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)

Cannon has proven himself as a consistent goal scorer in the Championship, having contributed to Leicester City’s title-winning campaign last season. His performances at Stoke further established his reputation, with his blend of finishing ability and composure in front of goal drawing attention from multiple clubs. Over two Championship seasons, he has scored 21 goals in the equivalent of 44 full 90-minute matches.

However, a deeper dive into his numbers reveals areas for improvement. His non-penalty expected goals per 90 places him in the 43rd percentile among Championship forwards, per FBref. And his creative contributions are certainly minimal:

  • Expected Assists (0.06 per 90): 31st percentile
  • Key Passes (0.66 per 90): 21st percentile
  • Shot-Creating Actions (1.63 per 90): 18th percentile
  • Goal-Creating Actions (0.18 per 90): 22nd percentile

To add, Cannon isn’t known for his hold-up play, and the stats reflect that narrative. He has a very poor aerial duels success rate.

Reflecting on his decision to join Sheffield United, Cannon expressed his enthusiasm for the project at Bramall Lane.

“I’m absolutely delighted to be here,” Cannon said to SUTV. “Sheffield United are a massive club with an incredible fanbase. After speaking with the manager, I felt this was the perfect place for me to take the next step in my career. Chris Wilder’s belief in me was a huge factor, and I’m excited to repay that trust on the pitch.”

Tags Chris Wilder New Signing Tom Cannon