Despite making attempts to bring in new recruits on transfer deadline day on 1st September, the Blades failed to recruit fresh players, however, with the January transfer window three months away, United could return to one of their key targets.
For Sheffield United supporters, the transfer deadline day was overshadowed by the possibility of midfielder Sander Berge leaving the club for pastures new. Though, in truth it was a relatively quiet day for United with Will Osula, joining Derby County on a seasons long-loan, and Polish defender Kacper Lopata to National League side Southend United, in what was the Blades’ only transfer business on the final day.
In preparation for Berge’s exit, the Blades had sought to bring in new players and had targeted CF Montreal midfielder, Ismael Kone. The 20-year-old MLS midfielder was born in Côte d’Ivoire but qualifies as a Canadian international. Despite an agreement reached, believed to be £4.50million, the deal was not completed.
Sheffield United are closing in on deal to sign Canadian midfielder Ismael Kone on permanent deal for £4.5m fee up to £5m package including bonuses. 🔴 #DeadlineDay
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 1, 2022
He was signed by the MLS club in August 2019, and his contract expires on, 31st December 2022, according to transfermarkt, however, the Canadian-based club have a two-year option to extend his deal should they require his services longer, otherwise, on the 1st January he will be allowed to leave the club a free agent.
Italian journalist, Fabrizo Romano, tweeted in the week that he expects the Blades will renew their interest in the Canadian when the MLS season comes to its conclusion in October.
Sheffield United are expected to be back in October to try and close Ismael Kone deal for January. It collapsed on Deadline Day after Sander Berge was not sold to Club Brugge. 🇨🇦 #transfers
There will be competition, especially from Bundesliga clubs. pic.twitter.com/1b5IEeIv4R
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 4, 2022
It will be worth tracking the player’s progress. He was wanted by Championship rivals Norwich City last July and is seen as a player with potential. Blades boss, Paul Heckingbottom, suggested that United could revisit the Kone deal, but whether he will be a free transfer in January, will remain to be seen – United may have to part with cash to secure his services!