Sheffield United are trying to push the boundaries, says boss Nigel Adkins

Sheffield United have seen several 'six-figure offers' rejected as they look to bolster their promotion-hunting squad.
Sheffield United's manager Nigel Adkins.Sheffield United's manager Nigel Adkins.
Sheffield United's manager Nigel Adkins.

Blades’ manager Nigel Adkins is keen to recruit two new signings before the closure of the January transfer window.

But he admitted yesterday that United have seen big-money offers snubbed for potential targets.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I want to bring a couple in, I’ve already said that,” said Adkins. “We have made offers, six-figure offers, that have been turned down.

“We don’t need numbers, we need quality footballers and they come at a premium.

“We’ve highlighted players that can improve the group. At this moment in time, we haven’t been able to get them, but – who knows – that may well change over the course of the next 11 days.

“As it stands, our bids have been turned down and that’s the prerogative of any football club.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“We’ll keep working. It’s got to be right because it’s going to cost money.

“There is a genuine support across the club to try and get them. There’s been a lot of money invested over the years and over time.

“Within Financial Fair Play, we have to get it right. But we also need to be kicking on and trying to push the boundaries. That’s certainly what I want to do.

“Remember, and it’s important not to lose sight of this, we have already got very talented players. But there’s a strong endeavour to bring more in.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“You need to be bold and strong enough to say it has to be the right players and maybe that’s not always happened in the past, which is why we are in a position whereby we’re looking to reduce the size of the squad now.

“We want players who can help us get promoted here and now, in the present.

“The long-term vision is young and hungry players, that’s also part of the strategy. But right now it’s about getting us up.”

The Blades are looking to reduce the size of their squad, letting fringe players depart, but Adkins revealed they had not had any bidders for young forward Che Adams – a player linked with a move to the Premier League.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“The objective is always to keep our best players,” said Adkins. “We’ve not had one phone call regarding Che.

“He’s still learning and understanding the standards of being a professional at a top football club.”

Doncaster Rovers have signed Sunderland striker Lynden Gooch, 20, on a month’s loan deal.