Exclusive:Sheffield United could receive contract boost as key man eyes long-term stay amid Gus Hamer hope
Sheffield United planned to trigger a contract extension for one of their key midfielders this season - but we understand he is also open to the prospect of committing to a longer-term deal at Bramall Lane.
Jairo Riedewald would be open to the possibility of signing a longer-term contract at Sheffield United, The Star has been told, as the Blades prepare to trigger the extension in the Dutchman’s Bramall Lane contract. The former Ajax man has been a big hit in South Yorkshire since signing on a short-term deal mid-season.
He has already been highlighted as a big part of United’s plans next season and, as we revealed recently, United were set to take up the option to automatically tie him to the club for another 12 months.
But we understand that Riedewald would be open to the prospect of putting down roots at United in the shape of a longer-term deal, giving him some security as he heads into a vital phase of his career.
The midfielder, who only turns 30 just after next season begins, and his partner are settled at United and the prospect of tying him down would represent another big boost for United as they look to banish a disappointing season to history and go again next term.
The future of another Dutchman, Brazilian-born but Netherlands-raised Gus Hamer, is also up in the air. The United forward shared what looked something like a farewell with Unitedites after Saturday’s win at Derby County.
But boss Chris Wilder insisted afterwards that it was not necessarily a goodbye, with Hamer yet to inform United of his future plans as he prepares to enter the final year of his contract. Wilder is keen for him to stay.
And the current word is that Hamer’s departure is not a formality, although his contract status makes United vulnerable. An agreement over an extension has not been ruled out by the player’s camp, we are told, if the terms are deemed acceptable.
Speaking after Saturday’s win at Derby, Wilder said of Hamer: “He shouldn't have played today. He rolled his ankle on Thursday and didn't train yesterday [Friday]. He wanted to play today. His attitude has been spot on.
“I said to him when he was coming off: ‘If this your last game, I really appreciate your efforts over the last 18 months for myself and the football club. I'd love to work with you again but I understand'.
“If he stays, then great. And if he doesn't, then he has the recognition he deserves for his efforts. Supporters don't get it wrong and their reaction to him at the end tells the story."