Sheffield United, despite uncertainty over their league status for the 2025-26 season, are already identifying summer transfer targets, including a potential move for a current Championship rival.
The Blades sit atop the second tier, and following the arrival of new owners COH Sports before the January window, they’ve already demonstrated their willingness to spend—most notably with the £10 million signing of Tom Cannon from Leicester City at the start of 2025.
Now, they have set their sights on one of the Championship’s standout performers this season: Norwich City winger Borja Sainz.
Sheffield United Face Challenges in Pursuit of Borja Sainz – Gus Hamer’s Role Also in Question
Journalist Alan Nixon recently reported that Sheffield United have identified Spanish forward Sainz as a key transfer target, regardless of which division they find themselves in next season.
Sainz has been in superb form, scoring 17 goals in 34 appearances for Norwich this season—15 of those coming in his first 18 matches of the 2024-25 campaign.
Norwich remain outsiders in the play-off race with nine matches left, making Premier League promotion unlikely. This could result in key players leaving, with Sainz and Josh Sargent among the potential departures.
FLW’s Blades pundit Jimmy—of The Blades Ramble YouTube channel—acknowledges Sainz as a prime target for United but warns that securing his signature could be difficult, with wealthier clubs also likely to show interest.
Additionally, Sainz operates in a role where Gus Hamer has thrived at United, meaning manager Chris Wilder may need to adjust his tactical setup.
“Borja Sainz is a very good player,” Jimmy told FLW. “It’s an intriguing link because if we see him as someone who can play on the right, that’s an area we need to strengthen. On the left, Gus Hamer has been outstanding—not as a traditional winger but as an inside No. 10, with incredible output from that role.
“So, I don’t think left-wing is a priority, which is interesting since that’s where Sainz predominantly plays. His arrival could mean shifting Gus inside or deploying Sainz on the right.
“We’re always happy to be linked with quality players. He hasn’t been tested in the Premier League yet, so if we’re promoted, that’s something to consider. I’d love to sign him, but whether Sheffield United can compete financially with other interested clubs remains to be seen.”
Sheffield United Must Weigh Premier League Suitability for Sainz
New Blades owners Steven Rosen and Helmy Eltoukhy backed the squad significantly in January, bringing in Hamza Choudhury and Ben Brereton Diaz to aid their promotion push.
If they secure Premier League status, further investment will be needed in both transfers and wages to ensure survival and long-term growth. Sainz is among the Championship’s top talents with the potential to make the step up.
However, examples like Jack Clarke’s move from Sunderland to Ipswich Town last summer—where he struggled to make an impact—highlight the risks of transitioning from the second tier to the Premier League. Additionally, Sainz previously scored just twice in 40 La Liga appearances for Alaves, raising further questions about his ability to succeed at the top level.
If he joins United, Wilder would need to reshuffle his squad, particularly given Hamer’s influence in a similar role. Ultimately, the challenge will be whether Sheffield United can outcompete other suitors in the race for Sainz’s signature.
