The news was a boost for boss Paul Heckingbottom as he looks to build a squad capable of competing in the top-flight next season, with the club’s recruitment drive well underway ahead of August 12’s opener against Crystal Palace at Bramall Lane.
Of the senior players at Heckingbottom’s disposal as things stand, 15 are scheduled to become free agents next summer - although United are thought to have options in their favour to extend in some cases. We had a look at the status of every senior player at Bramall Lane, to see where they’re at going into the new season...
5. Rhian Brewster
Under contract until 2025. Recovering from another hamstring injury, hopefully in time for the new season, Brewster is still waiting to consistently recapture the form that persuaded United to splash a club-record fee on him back in 2020 Photo: Marc Atkins/Getty Images
6. Sander Berge
Under contract until 2024. United’s club-record signing until Brewster’s arrival, the Blades will look to players of Berge’s stature next season as they look to compete against the country’s best. An international player with Champions League experience, he will not be short of suitors when he leaves the Lane – either for cash or on a free Photo: Michael Regan
7. Oli McBurnie
Under contract until 2024. Will be at Bramall Lane next season, after 15 goals helped them into the Premier League and saw his contract option taken up. But becomes a free agent next summer, putting United at risk if he continues his good form in the Premier League
8. John Egan
Under contract until 2024. One of a number of key players about to enter the final 12 months of their existing deals, the Republic of Ireland international will be keen to show again that he can cope at Premier League level after an excellent season when the Blades were last promoted Photo: Simon Bellis