Sheffield United and Derby County 'vying' for signature of Southampton's Ben Brereton Diaz
Sheffield United have again been linked with a former Blades loan star
Sheffield United are reportedly vying for the signature of Southampton forward Ben Brereton Diaz.
The 27-year-old is no stranger to Bramall Lane having been loaned to the Blades twice, first by Villareal in 2024 and then by Southampton a year later.
He spent last season on loan at Derby County, scoring eight goals across 41 appearances for the Rams.
Brereton Diaz was linked with a return to Sheffield United earlier in the summer and talk of interest from South Yorkshire has now resurfaced.
Sheffield United ‘vying’ to sign ex-Blade
According to reporter Darren Witcoop, Sheffield United and Derby are both eyeing reunions with the Chile international.
Posting on X, he said: “Derby and Sheffield United vying to re-sign Southampton winger Ben Brereton Diaz. One other Championship club has also registered interest with the Chilean deciding upon his next destination.”
Brereton Diaz is an experienced Championship operator yet does not appear to have a future at St Mary’s. He faces stiff competition for minutes in Tonda Eckert’s squad, although did make a substitute appearance in their league campaign opener against Watford.
Ben Brereton Diaz’s future
Sheffield United and Derby could both prove to be attractive destinations for Brereton Diaz given he is already familiar with them.
However, it remains to be seen if rival interest comes to the fore and Southampton reach an agreement with the unnamed club.
After making his second move to Bramall Lane in January 2025, the Brereton Diaz said “The atmosphere last year was tough at times, but I still enjoyed my football and loved every minute of my time at the club, the fans were brilliant, it is a real family club and there is a connection now which is important. No other club was an option for me.
“Coming back to Sheffield United this time I know I will enjoy it more than the first time, the lads have done unbelievably well and I'm just here to hopefully help the team achieve the goal of promotion.”