Nobody associated with Sheffield United is ever likely to look back on the 2026 summer transfer window with an awful lot of fondness.
After finishing 13th in the Championship last season, Chris Wilder hoped to use the summer window to rebuild his squad and boost the Blades’ chances of mounting a fresh promotion push this season.
Instead, United lost three of their best players and were forced to rely on free transfers and loans to bolster their squad. Jordan Ayew, who was signed on a free transfer a week after the transfer window closed, was the Blades’ seventh and final addition of the summer.
Having struggled to get new faces through the door, United oversaw more departures than arrivals during the window, with exits taking place on both permanent and temporary deals.
With that in mind, here is a look at how those who left Bramall Lane on permanent deals over the summer have been getting on...
5. Christian Nwachukwu (Sabah FK)
One of a handful of wildcard signings United have made in recent seasons, Nwachukwu sealed a permanent exit from Bramall Lane last month, joining Sabah FK. The winger, who failed to make a single appearance for the Blades, has made an encouraging start to life in Azerbaijan, scoring two goals and registering one assist in eight games. After getting on the scoresheet in Sabah's UEFA Champions League second qualifying-round triumph over Hapoel Be'er Sheva last month, the Nigerian started Sabah's Champions League defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford just over a fortnight ago. | Getty Images
6. Siem Eyob-Abraha (Cracovia)
After arriving at Bramall Lane from Manchester United in 2024, Eyob-Abraha attempted to make his presence known in the academy ahead of trying to graduate to the first-team. Unfortunately, he failed to force his way in and he sealed a move to Polish club Cracovia earlier this month. He is yet to make his debut. | Sheffield United FC
7. Tom Davies (unattached)
Following an injury-plagued three seasons at Bramall Lane, midfielder Davies was released by the Blades at the end of last season. The 28-year-old, who made just 36 appearances for United, remains without a club.
8. Danny Ings (Wycombe Wanderers)
After just one season at Bramall Lane, Ings was released at the end of last season. He was signed by former Blades boss Rubén Sellés and scored two goals in 24 appearances. After being linked with Leicester City during the summer, Ings was snapped up by Wycombe as recently as last Friday. He made his debut the following day, coming off the bench against Reading at Adams Park, and marked his first appearance for the club with a goal in a 2-2 draw, earning Wycombe a late point. | Getty Images