Chris Wilder delivers blunt Callum O'Hare transfer message as Wrexham move puts Sheffield United owners on spot
Chris Wilder has confirmed Wrexham have made an offer for Sheffield United key man Callum O’Hare, with the final decision now resting with those above him as to the player’s future
Wrexham have made a bid for Sheffield United man Callum O’Hare, Chris Wilder has confirmed, with the decision now with the Blades’ owners as to whether to accept or knock it back. We revealed over the weekend that the Welshmen were interested in the Blades’ No.10 ahead of tomorrow’s 11pm transfer deadline.
Wilder would be loathe to lose such a key man, especially at this stage of the window with such a limited period in which to sign a replacement, but the decision may be taken out of his hands if those above him decide to sell.
United’s Championship rivals have interest in a number of other players as well as O’Hare, and his departure is far from a formality. But speaking ahead of tomorrow night’s Bramall Lane clash against Bolton Wanderers, Wilder confirmed: “Yeah, there's been a bid put in by Wrexham. So that's with Steve [Bettis, chief executive] and the owners.
“So, he's a good player. I'm not surprised there's been interest. For me personally, I wouldn't want him to go. But I understand that there's a bid in, and it'll be dealt with with the certain people that deal with these things.
“This is not a criticism but I think Wrexham are in for half of the division as well. So, they've done business and that's their prerogative and what they need to do. But I know that there have been bids in on other players from that football club, in that position, as well.
“So, maybe a bit of blanket bombing in that position and see what comes up. It's not a done deal. If that changes, then that changes. But I know they've been in for a number of players, which is, as I said, what they can do at this particular situation and point of the window. And Calum's one of them.”
Wilder spoke to O’Hare, who has two goals to his name already this season, about the interest from the ambitious Red Dragons. “It wasn't a big chat,” he added. “He understands that he's got a job to do, to play for the football club, and he's a Sheff United player.
“He's under contract for us. So get on with your job and prepare as professionally as he has done. There’s a reason why is he's our player of the year and he's done well here for me and for the football club.”
United were rocked by the departure of Gus Hamer earlier in the season and losing O’Hare would be another huge blow in terms of the creativity of the side. “There are some players who you know their heads will be turned and it’s going to be a struggle,” Wilder added.
“But Cal’s mentality is first class. He wants to play for the football club. He's head down and carrying on. So absolutely no problem. You have to address it because you have to speak to him and talk him through where it's at, but Callum's been first class for me right the way through.
“He was a fantastic free transfer for us. He played a big part in the first season and last year was our club player of the year. So when you get voted that, I think you’re consistent with your performances.
“But you're consistent with your attitude as well. He's a good player and, as a football club, we don't want to lose good players.”