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Sheffield United signing this 21-year-old League One ace would be a solid defensive boost

Why Luke Woolfenden would be a smart signing for Sheffield United

According to the Daily Mail, Sheffield United are interested in signing Ipswich Town defender Luke Woolfenden this month.

Luke Woolfenden, 21, who joined the academy at Ipswich as an 11-year-old and first broke into the team in 2017, has impressed for Paul Lambert’s side this season. The versatile defender has made 24 appearances across all competitions so far, bagging two assists.

With the 21-year-old playing a big part in Ipswich Town’s promotion chase for Championship football, Sheffield United must do everything possible to recruit him.

The Blades are flying in the Premier League after achieving promotion last year. They are sixth in the league standings and have been an eye-catching team to watch this term.

Chris Wilder has impressed with his tactics and his team has delivered exciting, counter-attacking football with overlapping centre-backs.

Luke Woolfenden of Swindon Town in action during the Sky Bet League Two match between Northampton Town and Swindon Town at PTS Stadium on December 26, 2018 in Northampton, United Kingdom. (Getty Images)
Luke Woolfenden of Swindon Town in action during the Sky Bet League Two match between Northampton Town and Swindon Town at PTS Stadium on December 26, 2018 in Northampton, United Kingdom. (Getty Images)

Centre-backs such as John Egan, Jack O’Connell and Chris Basham have been rock-solid, forming a great understanding between them. In fact, they have played a pivotal role in helping Sheffield United achieve the joint second-best defensive record in the top-flight.

After Chris Wilder allowed defender Richard Stearman to leave the club and join Huddersfield Town on Friday, the Blades now lack depth in that position.

With Phil Jagielka the only natural central defender as backup, it’s imperative to address the area with the signing of Luke Woolfenden.

Woolfenden, who has impressed at right-back and centre-back in Ipswich’s promotion chase in the League One, would be a great fit at Bramall Lane. At the age of just 21, he is one for the future with the ability to develop into a top-tier player.

All in all, he would be a fantastic signing for the Blades, who are in a great position to achieve a place in the top six this season.

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder on the touchline. (Getty Images)
Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder on the touchline. (Getty Images)

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United’s recent good run means they look well set to challenge for a place in the top six and the addition of Woolfenden is one that could help them to do that.

While Wilder may not want to rotate his side too much, as a result of where it has got them already, he may need to add some more squad players to his side in order to step up should any injuries or suspensions arise.

As Woolfenden is young, he could be initially used as a back-up to the likes of Basham and O’Connell.

Verdict

Woolfenden is a fresh talent with potential and a lot to offer. Should Wilder manage to get his signature, he’ll represent a smart addition to United’s backline.