Sheffield United: Manager makes an admission about Southend bound Kacper Lopata

The 21-year-old centre-half, whose move to Southend was processed during the closing stages of the transfer window, was the subject of a bid from an unnamed Ekstraklasa club earlier this summer which was rejected by Heckingbottom’s employers.

The Star understands Lopata then received an invitation to sign a new contract with United, although that offer was declined when his representative queried its terms and conditions.

MORE: https://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-united/sheffield-united-sander-berge-and-the-story-of-transfer-deadline-day-at-bramall-lane-3828370

Asked about the decision to part company with a player who made two first team appearances for United under his predecessor Slavisa Jokanovic, Heckingbottom told The Star: “Kacper has gone to Southend. There was an offer from a Polish team earlier (in the window). We didn’t want to take it and we wanted to loan him out. He was offered a contract but then it became clear he didn’t want to be here anymore.”

Although the relationship between Heckingbottom and Lopata remained cordial, the Poland under-21 international’s dealings with other members of United’s hierarchy are thought to have become increasingly strained when the proposed deal was rejected.

Lopata featured 18 times for Southend after joining them on a temporary basis during the second half of last term.

Kevin Maher’s team face Torquay at Roots Hall today, and are expected to name Lopata in their squad.

MORE: https://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-united/sheffield-united-heckingbottom-to-seek-transfer-reassurance-after-sander-berge-drama-3828364