Champions must decide whether or not to pursue their interest in Sheffield United star

Rangers will decide whether or not to consolidate their interest in Oli McBurnie next week, but are unlikely to meet Sheffield United’s valuation of the centre-forward.
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Although United are not actively looking to part company with McBurnie, who has a proven track record at Championship level, new manager Slavisa Jokanovic is expected to remodel a squad which is overloaded with strikers following the club’s relegation from the Premier League.

Despite making an encouraging start to his career at Bramall Lane following a £22m move from Swansea City, McBurnie struggled for both form and confidence as United surrendered their top-flight status.

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Capped 16 times by Scotland, McBurnie is a lifelong Rangers supporter and would be tempted by a move to Ibrox if United indicate he is surplus to requirements. However, if Jokanovic is willing to part company with a player who will miss this summer’s European Championship through injury, the newly crowned Scottish Premiership champions are unlikely to pay the £15m some sources within the game report United might demand.

Sheffield United's Oli McBurnieSheffield United's Oli McBurnie
Sheffield United's Oli McBurnie

If Steven Gerrard does instruct his employers to make contact with McBurnie’s representatives, that could lead them to offer one or two players in exchange as part of a gesture designed to whittle down the asking price.

Jokanovic’s predecessor Chris Wilder was known to be an admirer of midfielder Glen Kamara. Although this is a priority position for United, with Sander Berge expected to follow John Lundstram through the exit door, it remains unclear if Jokanovic also wants the Finland international.