Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder issues a warning about his search for a striker as he provides an update on Lys Mousset

The uncertainty surrounding when Lys Mousset will return to action means it is imperative Sheffield United sign a new centre-forward before the transfer window closes next month, manager Chris Wilder has admitted.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Mousset will miss tomorrow’s game against Leeds United as he recovers from foot surgery, with United combining their preparations for the fixture with efforts to secure either Liverpool’s Rhian Brewster or Arsenal’s Folarin Balogun.

Although Mousset is making progress in his fitness battle, Wilder is still unsure when the Frenchman is going to become available for selection after a series of personal affected his conditioning even before being injured during a pre-season friendly.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I’ve seen Lys, he’s had his (protective) boot off,” Wilder said. “There’s no date on a return yet, though, unfortunately.”

Despite identifying a number of other possibilities, including Balogun, Brewster remains Wilder’s preferred option to fill the void created by Mousset’s absence - although the England under-21 international is also viewed as a long term solution to United’s issues in front of goal. However, Wilder has admitted he will only move if the “right” player becomes available.

As The Star revealed yesterday, Brewster is interested in the possibility of joining United but the size of the fee Liverpool have set has become an issue for Bramall Lane’s board of directors.

“I can’t say 100 per cent that one will come in,” Wilder warned. “If I don’t think the person won’t improve the group, then I won’t bring them in just for the same of it. I do believe the board share the same desire.”