Sheffield United target £14m Crystal Palace defender in loan move

Sheffield United are exploring the loan market as they look to revive their faltering Championship campaign, with reports suggesting they are lining up a move for a £14 million-rated Crystal Palace defender.

Despite a morale-boosting 3-1 victory over promotion contenders Ipswich Town at the weekend, the Blades remain down in 17th place, sitting nine points off the play-off positions. While the win offered encouragement, it also underlined how much ground Chris Wilder’s side still have to make up in the second half of the season.

Consistency has been the major issue at Bramall Lane this term. Positive results have too often been followed by setbacks, leaving Sheffield United stuck in the lower half of the table. Their next test will be another stern one, with a trip to fifth-placed Millwall looming next weekend.

The South Yorkshire club have already dipped into the January market, securing the loan signing of Ki-Jana Hoever from Wolves. However, Wilder is keen to further reshape his squad, particularly after allowing several players to leave in recent weeks. Strengthening key areas is viewed as essential if the Blades are to mount a late push for the play-offs.

One area of particular concern has been defence. Even in their impressive win over Ipswich, Sheffield United once again failed to keep a clean sheet. They have now conceded 39 goals in 28 league matches, a return that highlights the need for added solidity at the back if they are to climb the table.

According to reports from Alan Nixon, Crystal Palace centre-back Chadi Riad has emerged as a leading target. The Eagles are understood to be open to sending the 22-year-old out on loan to help him gain regular first-team football, and Sheffield United are believed to be leading the race for his signature.

Riad has only recently returned to action following an ACL injury, and opportunities at Selhurst Park may be limited in the short term. Even with Marc Guehi having moved on, competition for places in Palace’s defence remains strong, making a temporary move an attractive option for all parties.

From Riad’s perspective, a loan switch to the Championship could be ideal. Regular football would allow him to rebuild momentum and put himself back in the frame for international selection, with Morocco’s plans for the upcoming World Cup in mind.

For Wilder, landing Riad could represent a significant coup. Despite their struggles in the league, Sheffield United are well stocked in attacking areas. Players like Patrick Bamford provide a proven goal threat, while creative talents such as Gustavo Hamer and Callum O’Hare give the Blades quality and invention in midfield.

What has been missing, however, is defensive consistency. Too often, goals conceded have undermined good work at the other end of the pitch. Bringing in a defender with Riad’s pedigree could go a long way towards addressing that imbalance.

The Moroccan international’s background is certainly impressive. He made a senior appearance for Barcelona during the 2022/23 La Liga season, an experience that speaks volumes about his technical ability and potential. He has also earned caps for Morocco at international level, further underlining his standing in the game.

Before his move to Crystal Palace in the summer of 2024, reportedly worth £14 million, Riad spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan at Real Betis. During that spell, he made 26 appearances in La Liga and featured twice in the Conference League, gaining valuable experience at a high level in Spain.

Those experiences suggest Riad has the tools to thrive in the Championship. His composure on the ball, positional awareness and physical presence could make him one of the division’s standout defenders if he finds form and fitness.

If Sheffield United can secure his services before the window closes, Riad could quickly become a key figure in their push for the top six. His arrival would not only strengthen the back line but also provide competition and depth at a crucial stage of the season.

There is even the possibility that he could feature in the upcoming clash with Millwall, should a deal be completed in time. That match will be a significant test, with the Lions coming into it full of confidence after a thumping 4-0 win over local rivals Charlton Athletic.

Millwall’s attacking players, including the in-form Camiel Neghli and Femi Azeez, will pose a real threat. If Riad is drafted in, he could be tasked with helping to contain their influence and bring greater resilience to Sheffield United’s defensive unit.

With the Championship table still tightly packed and plenty of games remaining, a strong second half of the season could yet transform the Blades’ fortunes. Securing a defender of Riad’s quality on loan may prove to be a decisive step in turning promise into genuine play-off contention.

Middlesbrough launch fresh transfer chase after winning Sarmiento hijack

Middlesbrough have wasted little time shifting their attention in the transfer market, with reports suggesting the club are now pushing to sign a transfer-listed midfielder following their successful move for Jeremy Sarmiento.

It has been a whirlwind few days on Teesside. Boro initially appeared to be on the back foot after Birmingham City moved ahead in the race to sign Sarmiento, threatening to derail what looked like a promising deal. Rather than retreat, Middlesbrough responded decisively, accelerating their own efforts and ultimately emerging as frontrunners for the Brighton & Hove Albion winger.

That approach has paid off. According to Ben Jacobs, Boro are now closing in on a permanent deal for Sarmiento worth in excess of £5 million, edging Birmingham aside in the process. The Ecuador international looks set to become the latest addition in what has been an increasingly ambitious January window for head coach Kim Hellberg.

Sarmiento’s arrival would mark Middlesbrough’s third signing of the month, following earlier deals for Finley Munroe from Aston Villa and Leo Casteldine from Chelsea. Together, the trio underline a clear statement of intent from a club determined to strengthen at a crucial stage of the season.

Currently sitting five points behind Championship leaders Coventry City, Middlesbrough remain firmly in the hunt for promotion and the silverware that comes with it. With the title race finely balanced, Hellberg and the club’s recruitment team appear keen to ensure they leave no stone unturned between now and the end of the window.

Hellberg has already spoken positively about Sarmiento amid the growing speculation surrounding the deal. Reflecting on the winger’s quality and his own familiarity with the player, the Boro boss told reporters earlier in the week: “I know him. He’s played at Brighton, of course, and I’ve watched them quite a bit, especially when De Zerbi was there. I’ve seen him play. He’s a good player.”

Despite moving quickly to secure Sarmiento, Middlesbrough are not expected to stop there. With January shaping up to be decisive in the Championship promotion race, attention has now reportedly turned towards bolstering the midfield.

According to TeamTalk, Boro are now racing to sign Joe Rothwell, who has been transfer listed by Rangers following a disappointing spell north of the border. The 31-year-old midfielder is understood to be keen on a move away after struggling for regular minutes in Scotland.

Not long ago, Rothwell’s stock was significantly higher. He spent last season on loan at Leeds United, where he played an important role in their successful promotion campaign. That form earned him a move to Rangers, but his time at Ibrox has not gone to plan. He has failed to rediscover his best level and has not featured in any of Rangers’ last 14 Scottish Premiership matches.

With his future clearly uncertain, Rothwell is now attracting interest from several clubs, including Sheffield United, Derby County and Stoke City. However, Middlesbrough are believed to be well placed in the race, not least because of their strong position in the promotion picture.

For Rothwell, a move to the Riverside could offer the chance to revive his career and potentially replicate the impact he had at Leeds. Boro, meanwhile, would be adding a player with proven Championship pedigree at a time when experience and composure could prove vital.

The possible pursuit of a midfielder also makes sense given the uncertainty surrounding Hayden Hackney. The highly rated Boro academy product has once again been linked with top Premier League clubs, including Manchester United. While no move is imminent, reinforcing midfield depth would provide Hellberg with added security should interest in Hackney develop further.

Middlesbrough have already demonstrated their ambition by winning the race for Sarmiento, turning a potential setback into a significant boost. Securing Rothwell before the end of the month would further underline their determination to push on in the second half of the season.

With promotion firmly in their sights, Boro appear intent on using the remainder of the transfer window wisely. Another key addition could yet prove decisive as the Championship title race enters its most demanding phase.

Middlesbrough close in on deal as late hijack bid falls flat

Middlesbrough are expected to complete the signing of Brighton & Hove Albion winger Jeremy Sarmiento in the near future, with reports suggesting that any supposed late interest from rivals has failed to materialise.

According to journalist Lorenzo Lepore, the Championship side are closing in on the Ecuador international, with only final paperwork left before the deal is officially confirmed. Lepore shared the update on social media, offering reassurance to Middlesbrough supporters amid recent speculation linking other clubs to the player.

Sarmiento has been allowed to leave Brighton on loan repeatedly since 2023 as the Premier League club looks to find him regular first-team football. His most recent spell came in Italy with Cremonese, but that move did not go to plan. The 23-year-old struggled to make an impact in Serie B, managing just 137 minutes of action across seven appearances and failing to register a goal or an assist.

With the Italian loan proving unsuccessful, Sarmiento has been edging closer to an exit for several weeks. Earlier this month, Lepore reported that the winger had already agreed personal terms with Middlesbrough and that the club were working towards a permanent deal rather than another temporary move. That development appeared to put Boro firmly in pole position.

However, transfer speculation intensified when reports emerged from both Italy and England claiming Birmingham City had entered the race. Around the same time, Sarmiento publicly said farewell to Cremonese, further fuelling rumours that a switch elsewhere was imminent. For a brief period, it appeared that Birmingham might hijack the deal.

Those claims were later dismissed, with Italian outlet TuttoMercatoWeb stating that Birmingham’s move had collapsed and that Sarmiento was instead heading towards Middlesbrough, where Kim Hellberg is keen to strengthen his attacking options.

More recently, Wrexham were unexpectedly linked with the Brighton player, with suggestions that the Welsh club had submitted a bid in an attempt to snatch him away from Boro at the last moment. That rumour briefly raised doubts about whether Middlesbrough’s pursuit could yet face competition.

Lepore has since poured cold water on that idea, insisting that reports of Wrexham making an offer are simply inaccurate. According to the journalist, there is currently no threat from the League One side, and Middlesbrough remain firmly on course to secure the winger’s signature without interference.

At this stage, the transfer is said to be a formality. Lepore claims that all major elements of the deal are in place, with only administrative details remaining before Sarmiento is officially unveiled as a Middlesbrough player. Barring any unexpected complications, the move is expected to be completed imminently.

For Sarmiento, the switch represents another chance to reset his career. While he has shown flashes of talent during previous loan spells, consistency has been lacking, and he has yet to fully justify the high expectations that followed his early promise. Regular minutes at Middlesbrough could be crucial if he is to rediscover form and confidence.

The move may also carry international significance. With Ecuador continuing to plan for future tournaments, including the next World Cup, Sarmiento will be eager to put himself back in contention. A strong run of performances in the Championship could prove vital in keeping him on the national team’s radar.

For Middlesbrough, the deal offers a low-risk opportunity to add creativity and pace out wide, while for the player, it provides a fresh environment and a clear pathway to regular football. All signs now point to the transfer being wrapped up soon, bringing an end to weeks of speculation surrounding Sarmiento’s future.

Jakirovic hails instant impact of Bristol City loanee as Hull plan further moves

Hull City head coach Sergej Jakirovic has spoken positively about the club’s latest addition as the Tigers prepare for further activity in the January transfer window.

When asked about the possibility of bringing in winger Yu Hirakawa, Jakirovic made it clear there was no hesitation on his part. The Japanese international arrived on loan from Championship rivals Bristol City earlier this week and wasted no time in making an impression on both his manager and the Hull supporters.

Hirakawa was introduced at half-time during Tuesday night’s trip to Preston North End and played a decisive role in Hull’s commanding 3–0 victory at Deepdale. Within minutes of stepping onto the pitch, he chased down a loose ball on the flank before delivering a pinpoint cross that Oli McBurnie converted acrobatically, effectively sealing the win for the Tigers. The result lifted Hull into fourth place in the Championship and continued their impressive run of form away from home.

His arrival has come at an ideal moment for Hull, particularly with Darko Gyabi ruled out for an extended period due to a groin injury. The loss of Gyabi left Jakirovic short of options in wide and advanced positions, making Hirakawa’s signing all the more significant.

Speaking after the match, Jakirovic explained that the decision to sign the winger was an easy one. “As soon as Jared Dublin offered him to me, I knew straight away he was the right option,” he said. “I told him I would take him because we’re lacking that type of player in those positions due to injuries. He gives us more attacking options because he can play two or three different roles, and he’s ready to contribute.”

Jakirovic also highlighted the importance of Hirakawa’s familiarity with the Championship. He believes the winger’s knowledge of the league will allow him to make an immediate impact without the usual adjustment period that comes with mid-season signings. “He’s already in rhythm, which is very important for us,” Jakirovic added. “He knows the league, the clubs, and the environment, so there’s no need for adaptation. That helps us a lot.”

ON TARGET: Hull City new signing Yu Hirakawa celebrates with team-mate Oliver McBurnie (centre) after the visitors’ third goal of the game against Preston at Deepdale, Preston. Picture: Martin Rickett/PA

The Hull boss also drew on his previous experience of working with Japanese players during his time at Dinamo Zagreb, where he coached two players from Japan. He praised their professionalism and work ethic, qualities he believes Hirakawa also possesses. “Japanese players have a very high work rate and are extremely professional,” Jakirovic said. “Yu speaks good English, which is perfect. I understand Japanese players – they’re quick, agile, and technically very strong with both feet.”

Beyond Hirakawa’s arrival, Hull City are continuing to work on other deals. Jakirovic confirmed that progress is being made on a potential loan move for Manchester United defensive midfielder Toby Collyer. The 22-year-old is expected to join before the weekend, with the club hopeful the deal will be completed in time for Saturday’s home fixture against Swansea City.

There could also be movement in the opposite direction, with attacking midfielder Kasey Palmer close to a loan switch to Luton Town. The Jamaica international is keen to secure regular playing time ahead of important World Cup qualifiers in March. Jakirovic acknowledged the situation, noting the intense competition for places in midfield at Hull. “He has an offer from Luton, and it’s very important for him with the World Cup qualifiers coming up,” he said. “There are no minutes available for him here at the moment because of the competition in the middle.”

With new faces settling in and further changes expected, Hull City appear well placed as they continue their push near the top end of the Championship table.

Lampard Decision Sparks Coventry City Transfer Move For ‘Super Exciting’ Attacker

Coventry City have confirmed a notable January transfer departure after young forward Justin Obikwu acknowledged that the time was right for a new challenge in his career.

The Sky Blues striker has completed a move to Queens Park Rangers after head coach Frank Lampard approved his exit, with the deal understood to be worth around £500,000. The decision marks a fresh chapter for the promising attacker, who believes the switch is an important step in his long-term development.

Speaking after the move was finalised, Obikwu admitted that the opportunity to join QPR immediately caught his attention. The 20-year-old revealed that once he learned of the club’s interest, he felt it was a destination that matched both his ambitions and his next phase of growth as a footballer.

He explained that everything he had been told about QPR appealed to him, from the people behind the scenes to the supporters, facilities, stadium and overall environment. According to Obikwu, the club’s vision aligns closely with where he sees himself going as a player, making the decision feel like a natural progression rather than a gamble.

The striker also spoke openly about the need for change, suggesting that a fresh setting was essential for him to continue improving. While grateful for his time at Coventry City, Obikwu acknowledged that another stepping stone was required if he was to fulfil his potential, and QPR presented the right platform at the right moment.

From Coventry’s perspective, the move comes as part of Frank Lampard’s ongoing squad management during the transfer window. Lampard has been assessing both immediate needs and long-term planning since taking charge, and Obikwu’s departure reflects a willingness to allow young players to move on when opportunities for regular progression may be clearer elsewhere.

At QPR, excitement around the signing has been clear. Chief executive Christian Nourry spoke glowingly about the club’s newest addition, describing Obikwu as a highly promising attacking profile. Nourry highlighted the forward’s blend of raw pace and composed finishing, traits that QPR believe can be developed further within their system.

He also praised Obikwu’s intelligence and attitude, stressing that the striker has shown a genuine commitment to improving every aspect of his game. According to Nourry, that mindset was a key factor behind QPR’s decision to move quickly to secure his signature, as the club looks to invest in players with both talent and the right mentality.

For Obikwu, the move represents more than just a transfer fee or a change of shirt. It is a chance to reset, refocus and push himself in a new environment where expectations and opportunities may help accelerate his development.

As Coventry City continue to shape their squad under Lampard and QPR look to build for the future, the deal could prove beneficial for all parties involved. For now, Obikwu departs the CBS Arena believing he has taken the right step, while both clubs turn their attention to what lies ahead in a crucial stage of the season.

Coventry City forward poised for move to Championship rivals

Coventry City are preparing to sanction a permanent transfer for young striker Justin Obikwu, with Championship rivals Queens Park Rangers emerging as the leading destination for the 21-year-old.

The Sky Blues have opted to recall Obikwu from his season-long loan at Lincoln City as they look to secure him a move elsewhere during the current transfer window. Coventry are understood to have agreed a deal in principle with QPR, which would see the forward move to Loftus Road for an initial fee in the region of £500,000.

Justin Obikwu – pictured here during pre-season training at Coventry City’s Ryton training ground last summer – could be heading to QPR(Image: )

Obikwu has spent the first half of the campaign on loan with League One high-flyers Lincoln City, where opportunities have been limited. Despite the Imps pushing near the top of the table, the striker managed just four league starts alongside 13 substitute appearances, scoring three goals in total. With regular minutes proving hard to come by, Coventry have decided that a permanent switch would better serve the player’s development.

According to reports, discussions between Coventry and QPR have progressed positively, with the West London club keen to bolster their attacking options. While personal terms are still to be finalised and other clubs are monitoring the situation, Obikwu is believed to be edging closer to a return to the capital, where he grew up.

QPR currently sit mid-table in the Championship, placed 11th with 39 points, and view Obikwu as a player with long-term potential who could add depth and energy to their forward line. The move would represent a significant step up for the striker, who is yet to make a competitive first-team appearance for Coventry City.

Obikwu’s journey in the professional game began after he joined Coventry’s academy as an Under-18 player from non-league outfit Harefield United. He quickly impressed at youth level and signed his first professional contract with the club in 2023, featuring predominantly for the Under-21 side.

To aid his progression, Coventry arranged a pair of loan spells with League Two side Grimsby Town, where Obikwu gained valuable senior experience. Those stints paved the way for his move to Lincoln City last summer, as the Sky Blues hoped regular football in League One would accelerate his development.

Although his time at Lincoln did not result in a consistent starting role, the experience is still viewed positively by Coventry, who believe the forward has benefited from training and competing in a promotion-chasing environment. However, with the player entering a key stage of his career, the club have decided that a permanent transfer now makes sense for all parties.

Despite not breaking into Coventry’s senior squad, Obikwu has already gained international recognition. He has been capped four times by Trinidad and Tobago, highlighting the potential that has attracted interest from clubs higher up the English football pyramid.

For Coventry, the deal represents a chance to cash in on a promising academy product while allowing him to continue his development elsewhere. For QPR, it could be a low-risk investment in a young striker with room to grow and experience across multiple levels of the Football League.

As talks continue over personal terms, clarity is expected soon. Should the move be completed, Obikwu will be hoping that a fresh start in West London provides the platform to establish himself in the Championship and take the next step in his career.

Coventry City handed major injury boost before crucial Leicester derby

Frank Lampard has received a timely fitness lift ahead of Coventry City’s high-profile M69 derby against Leicester City, with two influential players returning to contention just in time for Saturday’s showdown at the CBS Arena.

The Sky Blues boss confirmed that both Victor Torp and Brandon Thomas-Asante have resumed full training at Ryton this week, putting them back in the frame for selection as Coventry prepare for one of their most eagerly anticipated fixtures of the season.

Midfielder Torp appears the more likely of the two to feature from the outset. The Dane has only missed the last three matches due to a calf problem and has recovered swiftly, placing him firmly in contention to return to the starting XI. His availability will come as a major boost to Lampard, given Torp’s importance in the middle of the park and his ability to dictate tempo and link play.

Coventry City forward Brandon Thomas-Asante and midfielder Victor Torp are both in contention for the weekend’s match against Leicester(Image: )

Thomas-Asante’s situation is slightly different. Coventry’s leading scorer has been sidelined since late November after suffering a hamstring tear, an injury that has kept him out of action for the last ten games. While he is now back training and available for selection, Lampard suggested the forward is more likely to be eased back gradually, potentially beginning with a role from the substitutes’ bench.

Providing an update during his pre-match press conference, Lampard said: “Torpy and Brandon are in contention for tomorrow,” offering encouragement to supporters hoping to see two of the club’s most influential performers involved in the derby encounter.

The return of Thomas-Asante, even in a limited capacity, could prove significant. Coventry have had to adapt their attacking approach in his absence, and having the option of introducing a proven goal threat late in the game could be crucial against strong opposition like Leicester.

Lampard also delivered updates on other members of his squad, including full-back Kaine Kesler-Hayden. The defender has been unavailable since picking up an ankle injury in the New Year’s Day fixture at Charlton. While his recovery is progressing positively, Lampard confirmed that the former Villa man remains a couple of weeks away from making his return.

“Yeah, he’s a couple of weeks away but he’s doing well,” Lampard explained, indicating that Kesler-Hayden is on track but will not be rushed back into action.

The only other senior player currently sidelined is goalkeeper Oliver Dovin, who has endured a long road back from a serious cruciate knee injury sustained nearly ten months ago. The Swedish stopper had been targeting a return at some point this month, but Lampard struck a cautious tone when asked about his progress.

“He’s progressing well but I’ll be honest with you, I haven’t got an absolute update on that just in this last week,” Lampard admitted. “I’ve been focussing on other things.”

He added that while Dovin’s rehabilitation is moving in the right direction, the goalkeeper has not yet returned to training with the squad. Lampard stressed that he is keen to avoid placing unnecessary pressure on the player by setting rigid timelines.

“He’s not on the training pitch yet and I don’t want to put any pressure on that timeline,” he said. “We’re hoping he’s available for us this season, but as far as I’m concerned I haven’t got the exact idea of when and I don’t want to commit to something.”

With the derby looming, the potential availability of Torp and Thomas-Asante represents a significant boost for Coventry as they look to rise to the occasion against their East Midlands rivals. While Lampard is likely to manage minutes carefully, particularly with players returning from longer layoffs, the added depth and quality gives him more tactical options for a fixture that could hinge on fine margins.

As anticipation builds ahead of Saturday’s clash, Coventry fans will be encouraged by the sight of key figures edging closer to full fitness, strengthening Lampard’s hand as he prepares his side for one of the most emotionally charged games on the calendar.