Sheffield United Opinion: Why the Blades should go for Simon Sluga?
Premier League newcomers Sheffield United and Norwich City are interested in HNK Rijeka goalkeeper Simon Sluga, with Derby County also in the mix. (h/t Norwich Evening News)
Simon Sluga, 26, has impressed for HNK Rijeka in Prva HNL this season, becoming a hero by saving a penalty in the club’s Cup final triumph over Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday. He has been named in the latest squad though, for a Euro 2020 qualifier against Wales and a friendly against Tunisia next month.
But with just 12 months left on his contract, the report adds the Croatian’s time at HNK Rijeka appears to be coming to an end, particularly with the club setting a price tag of £1.8 million.
That being said, Sheffield United must go all out to sign Sluga in the summer transfer window.
Sheffield United secured automatic promotion from the Championship alongside Norwich City, with their impressive defensive record being a major factor behind their success. While the back three along with the wing-backs were excellent, one cannot forget the contributions of goalkeeper Dean Henderson.
Dean Henderson, on loan from Manchester United, enjoyed an impressive season-long loan at Bramall Lane this past campaign, keeping a league-high 21 clean sheets to help the Blades earn promotion to the top-flight in 12 long years. Impressed with his showing between the sticks, Chris Wilder wants the 21-year-old back for another season-long loan.
While Manchester United are also believed to be open to allowing Henderson to return to Sheffield United for another season, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could change his stance due to David de Gea’s uncertain future at Old Trafford. Should the Red Devils cash in on De Gea this summer, Solskjaer could then keep hold of Henderson and block his move to the Blades.
Thus, Wilder must not take any risks and sign Simon Sluga to strengthen his goalkeeping options ahead of the massive 2019/20 Premier League campaign.
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Standing at 6ft 3ins tall, Sluga is rated very highly in Croatia and his performances this season have also earned him a call up to the national team. The big Croat is an imposing figure in the box, known for his ability to organise the defence and keep things calm under pressure situation. He’ll undoubtedly add quality to the goalkeeping department, whilst battling with Simon Moore for the no.1 spot.
Verdict
If Wilder fails to bring in Henderson on loan, he should act quickly to sign Simon Sluga. And available below £2 million, the big Croat will represent a huge coup for the Blades.
