Skip to content
Sheffield United can give Chelsea what they need as Carney Chukwuemeka is ideal transfer option
Of all the transfer links so far to Sheffield United, Carney Chukwuemeka makes the most sense. The 19-year-old is said to be on the Blades’ radar as a loan target for next season.
Owner Prince Abdullah this week mapped out the transfer blueprint that manager Paul Heckingbottom and head of recruitment Paul Mitchell are working on and Chukwuemeka more than fits the bill for what United are looking for.
The focus is on young players and the loan market.
READ MORE: Prince Abdullah admission highlights Sheffield United necessity with Premier League riches
Midfield is an area in need of attention with loanees Tommy Doyle and James McAtee leaving two huge holes to fill. There could also be a shift to a flat midfield three, similar to the last time Sheffield United were in the Premier League, meaning Heckingbottom needs someone who is good in possession and has the ability to get forward.
One look at Chukwuemeka’s scouting reports and he can be that player.
The England youth international, who was due to be with Daniel Jebbison at the under 20 World Cup before being withdrawn from the squad by Frank Lampard, can play as a number 8 or 10.
It’s the former that will be of interest to Heckingbottom, though. He is regarded as a ball carrier, extremely comfortable in possession and his progressive passing stats all point towards a player United can trust with the ball at his feet.
Join in our Sheffield United Q&A
He was instrumental in helping England win the Euro under 19 Championships last summer with three goals in five games; two assists; a 93% pass accuracy; 3.5 successful dribbles completed per 90; 4.3 interceptions per 90 and a 59% duel success rate.
Not only does he like to get forward into the area from midfield but his 6ft frame also makes him difficult to knock off the ball and he would give United a presence in that area.
He has all the attributes a player needs to become a top midfielder, but with only four Premier League starts to his name this gem is in need of polishing up.
This is where Sheffield United can help. Paul Heckingbottom and his coaching staff have already shown with their care and development of James McAtee and Tommy Doyle that teams can trust him with their young stars.
One criticism that has been levelled at the young midfielder is he has often been guilty of ball-watching.
McAtee’s progression, particularly off the ball and his understanding of his role out of possession, was clear to see by the end of the season and Chukwuemeka is in need of similar treatment.
United can give Chelsea what they need in the same way they delivered for Manchester City this season. A loan move to Bramall Lane could be perfect.
