Sheffield United have renewed efforts to recruit Harry Souttar and are also exploring the possibility of bringing Kalvin Phillips back to Bramall Lane, the club confirmed as interest continued to swirl around Leicester City's squad.
United pressing for defensive reinforcements
Chief executive Stephen Bettis is reported to be negotiating for Souttar and Phillips as the Blades eye changes ahead of the season. Souttar, currently at Leicester, is one of two centre-halves Sheffield United are pursuing as they look to strengthen their back line.
Leicester allowed Souttar to feature in a behind-closed-doors fixture at their Seagrave training ground in which he appeared for a second-string side in a 1-0 loss to Coventry City. Hamza Choudhury, another former Sheffield United loanee, was also involved in that squad.
Manager confirms targets but plays down finality
“That's been left with Steve. There was a conversation with Leicester… We will get a centre-half in, and we will get two centre-halves in, and we might lose a player.”
The comment from Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder underlined that while both players remain on United's radar, no completed deals were imminent and further talks were expected.
- Harry Souttar – targeted by Sheffield United; reportedly has a £10m asking price this summer.
- Kalvin Phillips – United exploring a return, potentially with Manchester City continuing to subsidise wages.
- Mark McGuinness – suggested as a possible makeweight in talks for Souttar.
What this means for Leicester City supporters
The club's squad management remains active: Sheffield United have had a proposed loan-to-buy arrangement rebuffed and appear to be seeking a fresh agreement. Phillips was left out of Leicester’s recent pre-season tour squad and retains two years on his contract, while new signings at City have pushed him further down the pecking order. Any permanent or temporary moves would be subject to negotiation between the clubs and the players involved.
| Player | Reported status |
|---|---|
| Harry Souttar | Target for Sheffield United; involved in closed-door match for Leicester |
| Kalvin Phillips | Explored by Sheffield United; wages possibly subsidised by Manchester City |
| Mark McGuinness | Potential part of a swap in negotiations |
For supporters in Leicester, the coming days are likely to be decisive as both clubs attempt to conclude talks. Any formal moves will be confirmed through club channels.
