Sheffield United could resurrect interest in free agent transfer as Kalvin Phillips alternative
Sheffield United are determined to re-sign Kalvin Phillips this summer - but they might be wise to consider an alternative option.
It is no secret by now that Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder is planning to shop for players with Championship pedigree in this summer’s transfer window.
After finishing an underwhelming 13th in the Championship in 2025/26, United will be under pressure to make progressive strides next season and drag themselves into promotion contention.
An expanded play-off system, accommodating six teams instead of the four we have all become used to over the years, increases United’s chances of climbing back into the Premier League at the third attempt. However, they will only be in the mix for promotion provided Wilder oversees a productive summer’s worth of recruitment.
The United chief has long since sounded his intentions to strengthen his squad this summer after inheriting a squad that was partially rebuilt after his exit last summer. United recruited too many inexperienced players who were foreign to the Championship last summer, meaning they are set to try and bring in players who are very familiar with the division this time around.
As reported by The Star, Ipswich Town winger Jack Clarke and Lewis Dobbin of Aston Villa are on Wilder’s list of targets, highlighting his desire to bring in players who are well-versed in England’s second tier.
Another name among Wilder’s top targets is Manchester City midfield enforcer Kalvin Phillips, who spent the second half of the most recent campaign on loan at Bramall Lane. After arriving in what was widely considered as a statement deal on the final day of the winter window, a knee injury restricted him to just three appearances, ending his season as early as February.
However, United have offloaded Jaïro Riedewald, who was expected to stick around for another season at the very least, to make room and free up funds for Phillips’ return. Wilder is keen to re-sign the England international and attempt to get a consistent tune out of him.
However, consistency is something Phillips has struggled for in recent seasons because of fitness and injury issues. Since the start of the 2023/24 season, for example, the 30-year-old, who joined City from Leeds United back in July 2022, has managed just 46 appearances. It does highlight why several United supporters are sceptical about Wilder’s interest in re-signing him.
There is no doubt a fully fit Phillips, who is banking regular minutes, would be among the very best midfielders in the Championship next season. You do not achieve what he has in his career by being a bad player.
However, although United will need City to contribute to his wages to make a return to Bramall Lane possible, re-signing him would definitely represent a huge risk. And that is why they could be wise to look elsewhere in their hunt for a midfielder.
One name who might make his way back onto their radar is Dan Neil. Sunderland issued their retained list earlier this week, confirming the Black Cats academy graduate will leave the club on a free transfer when his contract expires on June 30.
Neil, 24, was on United’s radar back in January before he sealed a move to Ipswich Town on loan for the remainder of the season. He made 17 appearances for the Tractor Boys, helping them seal an immediate return to the Premier League.
Confirmation that he will become a free agent this summer has already alerted several clubs, with Hull City, who recently earned promotion to the Premier League, Middlesbrough and Rangers said to be among the leading contenders to secure his signature.
The former Sunderland captain will be an excellent addition for anyone on a free transfer. He is a quality operator and has gone from strength-to-strength over the last few years. He was central to the Black Cats’ promotion from the Championship in 2024/25, cementing himself as a key fixture at the base of their midfield.
Having been on United’s radar earlier this year, there would be merit in United reviving their interest in him again this summer. He fits the criteria Wilder is looking for amid the fact he is Championship proven, making over 150 appearances at this level.
Additionally, considering he does not turn 25 until December, he still has plenty of mileage in the tank, meaning he is experienced enough in the Championship without having passed or being close to his peak.
There is no doubt competition for Neil’s signature will be fierce this summer, meaning there is no guarantee United, should they rekindle their interest, would win the battle for his signature. However, exploring the prospect of a signing would make plenty of sense.
United need a midfielder and Wilder wants Championship experience, making Neil an ideal fit. On a free transfer, United could do far worse.