Sheffield United have officially sanctioned the sale of Kacper Lopata to Southend United. The club confirmed this morning that United have a sell-on clause as part of the deal.
The 21-year-old centre-back was thought of highly by the fans and coaching staff, however, he was unwilling to sign a new contract as the Polish youth international wanted first-team football. Unfortunately, the Blades couldn’t offer him that which is the reason for his departure.
Lopata returns to Roots Hall after having a successful loan spell with the National League side last season. The Pole made 18 appearances for the Shrimpers during his loan spell, where fans came to love his ability, attitude and determination to win games.
The Blades were hoping to extend his contract and send him out on loan to a League 2 or League 1 club, but the player was passionate about playing first-team football for the future and not just for the season.
This move opens up a path to the first team for the likes of Nicksoen Gomis and Miguel Freckleton. With the FA cup competition getting underway in the next few months, this competition could provide a chance for the likes of Gomis and Freckleton to appear more in the first team.