On Thursday, Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder secured his fifth transfer of the summer when Fulham’s former England U21 international Richard Stearman was secured.
Stearman, who spent last season on loan at former club Wolves, has been signed on a three year contract with United paying ‘a substantial undisclosed fee’ for the central defender – he can also play at right back too.
Wilder said Stearman, 29, had been his ‘number one target’ and was therefore obviously delighted to clinch the signing of the experienced defender, a veteran of over 240 – a little over 200 for Wolves alone – Championship appearances.
He told the Official Website: ‘Richard was our number one target throughout the summer and I’m delighted he has signed. We’ve been on the look out for a central defender who has played extensively in the Championship and who possesses the qualities and characteristics to fit in with our group.’
United weren’t the only club in for him but Wilder managed to lure him to Bramall Lane.
‘Richard will undoubtedly strengthen us, he’s a calm influence in the dressing room and every manager who I have spoken to about him says he has outstanding leadership qualities and will offer 100 per cent commitment, on and off the pitch. He had other opportunities to pursue, but I am delighted we have managed to tempt him to Bramall Lane.’
Stearman follows the previous additions of Ched Evans, Nathan Thomas, Enda Stevens and George Baldock.
