Which division United are in next season – they travel to Norwich this weekend second in the Championship table – will undoubtedly play a big part in many of the decisions, while some of those players facing uncertain futures have options in their contracts allowing the Blades to extend them by a further season.
Some of the players nearing the expiry of their deals are experienced heads, some promising youngsters. The process of offering new deals has been disrupted by United’s transfer embargo, with league approval required before fresh terms can be accepted.
So we had a look, in squad number order, at the 15 players who could be on their way this summer – with some real fan favourites nearing the expiry of their Bramall Lane deals ...
Some of the players nearing the expiry of their deals are experienced heads, some promising youngsters. The process of offering new deals has been disrupted by United’s transfer embargo, with league approval required before fresh terms can be accepted.
5. Oli McBurnie (26)
United’s leading scorer this season is in the best form of his time at Bramall Lane but is approaching the end of his initial deal. He has admitted he wants to stay and is clearly enjoying his football under Paul Heckingbottom and striker coach Jack Lester Photo: Darren Staples
6. Billy Sharp (37)
Now 37, Sharp has seen first-team opportunities limited this season but will still back himself to score goals in the Championship when he gets his chance between now and the end of the season. He saw a one-year extension triggered last season so fresh terms would have to be agreed between both parties if his remarkable Lane story is to continue Photo: Darren Staples
7. Ollie Norwood (31)
Another performing admirably for the Blades this season, Norwood is the heartbeat of this United side under Heckingbottom and is another who admitted earlier this campaign that he doesn’t want to leave the Lane. Has lost his place to Tommy Doyle in recent weeks but should not be written off under any circumstances and would be a sensible player to retain next season, whichever division United find themselves in Photo: Ashley Crowden
8. Wes Foderingham (31)
Undisputedly United’s No.1 – after starting last season as third-choice but seizing his chance when it came – but another facing an uncertain future. United fans have taken Foderingham to their hearts after some excellent performances and he seems to have bought into the club and its culture as well Photo: Ashley Crowden