Champions League offer ‘charms’ Sheffield United star as £12.6m ‘bid’ is rejected

Sheffield United have rejected a bid for midfielder Sander Berge - according to reports in Belgium.

Club Brugge were initially linked with a move for the Norway international during the January transfer window and have maintained that interest ever since.

Belgian outlet HLN has claimed that interest has now progressed into an official offer as Brugge look to add what they see as ‘a missing link’ to their squad.

The current Belgian champions are said to have submitted an initial offer of £12.6million, with a number of add-ons set to follow.

Although the offer would represent a club record for Brugge, the report states it has been ‘categorically rejected’ by the Blades - but claimed Berge is ‘already charmed’ by the prospect of moving to a club competing in the Champions League.

However, HLN also state the midfielder has hopes to secure a move to ‘a beautiful club’ in the Premier League.

Berge has started both of United’s Championship fixtures so far this season and scored the second goal in Saturday’s 2-0 home win against Millwall.

Speaking in the aftermath of that win over the Lions, Blades boss Paul Heckingbottom hailed the performance of his star midfielder and made a bold prediction over his future at Bramall Lane.

He told The Star: “Sander was excellent and, if he performs like that every time, someone will pay millions for him – the value will either be too good to turn down or it hits a release clause.

“You want players who are in demand. It means they are doing something right because people aren’t interested in ones who aren’t.

“Sander is doing his talking on the pitch.”

Berge has said little over a potential move away from Bramall Lane but did answer questions over his future when he was on international duty with Norway earlier this summer.

He said: “I concentrate on the match and leave it until later. What do I want? I choose not to share it here and now.

“After the national team gathering, my agents, me and the club get to take care of it. I've had a nice development at Sheffield United lately. Then we will see what the future brings.”

Leeds United have also been linked with a move for Berge in recent months.