Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder's big prediction about John Lundstram

Chris Wilder, the Sheffield United manager, has insisted it would be a mistake to interpret John Lundstram’s decision not to immediately accept a new contract as a sign he is exploring options elsewhere.
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Wilder was speaking as he elaborated upon his plans to tie the midfielder down to a new long-term deal following a series of impressive displays in the Premier League.

Lundstram, who has been informed United will trigger a clause in his present agreement extending it by a further year, is expected to make his 22nd appearance of the campaign at Arsenal tomorrow.

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After confirming the provision’s existence earlier this week, Wilder said: “He (Lundstram) has not expressed a desire to go elsewhere.

“As far as I’m concerned, he loves it here and he wants to stop but there’s always a negotiation.”

Speaking at United’s pre-match briefing on Thursday, Wilder predicted discussions with Lundstram, Enda Stevens and John Egan will be concluded at the end of the transfer window, which closes later this month. John Fleck has also been told to prepare for talks before the end of the campaign.

With Lundstram’s contract set to expire in June, Wilder said: “We’ve got an option on John and we’ll definitely take that up.

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“He’s been outstanding for us in that midfield and the three of them (Lundstram, Fleck and Oliver Norwood) have been keeping some really good players out.

“If people don’t want to be here, or express a desire to go and don’t see their futures here,m then I’ll always look after the club. But that’s not the case here.”