Sheffield United set for Djibril Soumare reunion after enigmatic midfielder makes Championship transfer return
Sheffield United set for Djibril Soumare reunion after enigmatic midfielder makes Championship transfer return
Sheffield United will come face-to-face with their enigmatic former loan man Djibril Soumare next season after the Senegalese midfielder signed a three-year deal with their Championship rivals Stoke City. Soumare spent last season on loan at Bramall Lane from Portguese top-flight side Braga.
In his 27 appearances for the Blades he split opinion amongst fans and, like the rest of the club’s loan signings, departed at the end of the campaign. But Stoke obviously saw enough to make him a summer target, subsequently agreeing a fee with Braga.
The 23-year-old said that last season’s experience in South Yorkshire will stand him in good stead in Staffordshire. “My overriding emotion upon signing for Stoke City is one of pride,” he said.
“Like every young footballer, I want coaches who really enjoy developing the player and I believe that the coaches here are the right ones for me. I would say that I am an aggressive player who likes the ball.
I enjoy being aggressive in my mentality but also in how I win the ball for the team too. I am 23, I am no longer a kid; I feel more mature for last season in the Championship, where I know you have to run a lot, and that experience is one I have felt significant benefit from.
“I cannot wait to meet our supporters but I know the only way to earn their trust, and that of the Manager, is to give my utmost every time I train and play, and by helping my teammates to win matches for Stoke City.”
Stoke sporting director Jonathan Walters explained why Soumare was identified as a player of interest. “Djibril is a player who fits the profile we wanted to add to our midfield,” he said.
“He is 6’2”, athletic, comfortable on the ball and likes to play forward. He has the attributes to operate as a defensive midfielder, protect the back line and help the team progress the ball through the pitch.
“He has gained valuable experience in different countries and, at just 23, already has a strong range of experiences to draw upon. Last season gave him the opportunity to settle into the Championship with Sheffield United, and we believe that experience will serve him well going forward.
“We feel he adds balance and competition to our midfield group, while also giving us different qualities within the squad.
“He is still young, hungry to improve and has plenty of room for development. We are excited to see him continue to grow as a player while working with our coaching staff.”
The deal will officially go through on July 1, after Soumare’s loan spell at United officially comes to an end. He is one of a number of players the Blades are looking to replace this summer, with Kalvin Phillips the Blades’ top midfield target.
Another deal with Manchester City is expected to be agreed for the former England international, who spent the second half of last season at Bramall Lane but made only three appearances before injury cut short his season.