Why Reading ace John Swift would be a useful signing for Sheffield United
According to The Star, John Swift of Reading is still being considered as an option by Sheffield United. The Blades tried to sign the midfielder in the summer but both clubs failed to agree on a fee. The main reason for interest in Swift is that contract negotiations with John Lundstram have hit a standstill and the manager wants to prepare for any scenario.
Profile
John Swift is a 25-year-old English central-midfielder who plays for Championship side Reading. He started his youth career at Portsmouth in 2005 but moved to Chelsea’s academy soon. Progressing through the youth levels, he was promoted to the senior side in 2014.
However, he was sent on three successive loan spells to Rotherham United, Swindon Town and Brentford between 2014 and 2016. He made just one appearance for Chelsea before being let go on a free transfer to Reading.
Since then, he has settled in well at the club, making over 150 appearances, scoring 22 goals and assisting another 23 (source – Transfermarkt). Swift has been a regular part of the England youth sides but is yet to play a game for the senior side.
Will he be a good signing for Sheffield United?
As mentioned in the report earlier, John Lundstram’s contract situation has made things complex. The defender’s current deal expires at the end of the season and renewal hasn’t been done yet.
Chris Wilder would want to get ahead of the situation and look at the alternatives. John Swift provides him with a good option here. Capable of playing anywhere in the midfield, he gives Wilder all the more reason to push for a move.
His primary position is as a central midfielder but he has played in other positions as well. He also has a good record with goal contributions, which makes him an all-round package.
Verdict
In the event that Lundstram does not agree to a new deal, Sheffield would be wise to go for Swift. It is clear that he can do it all and seems like an able replacement for Lundstam in case he departs.
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The club should push for him sooner than later as he would definitely be a useful signing for them.
