Sheffield United opinion: Wilder wants Graeme Shinnie – good move?
According to a report from the Daily Record, Sheffield United and Bristol City have submitted offers to sign Aberdeen’s Graeme Shinnie in the summer. The club captain’s contract with Aberdeen runs out in the summer and he will be available on a free transfer.
The Scottish international has been with the Dons since the summer of 2015 and the report reveals that he will choose between Sheffield United and Bristol City in the summer. Sheffield have a huge chance of making it to the Premier League next season as they sit just 2 points away from automatic qualification.
The Blades’ offer will be a lot more valuable if they can make it to the English top-flight along with an opportunity to work with Chris Wilder. Wilder has worked wonders with this Sheffield side since his appointment and this a chance that Shinnie should grab with both hands.
Shinnie has been ever-present for the Dons so far this season and hasn’t missed a minute’s action in the league. The skipper, along with playing in his natural left-back position, has featured in defensive midfield and also in a box-to-box role so far this season.
His versatility is one of his biggest assets and that combined with his experience of playing over 350 games in his career will be a welcome addition to this Sheffield side who could do with more leaders.
Enda Stevens has performed incredibly well for the Blades in that left wing-back role but Chris Wilder has no backup option there. Shinnie would provide suitable protection in that position and his experience would help the young players around him develop well.
Shinnie could also help out in central midfield and give Wilder a ton of options due to his ability to play as a number 6 and also a number 8.
He would provide a sense of calmness in possession in the middle of the park for the Blades, something that will be of great importance in both the Premier League and also in the Championship.
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Conclusion
Sheffield could not possibly go wrong in signing Shinnie, especially with the Scot coming in for free. The versatile player will provide them suitable cover in multiple areas of the pitch and his experience will play a huge role in guiding the youngsters in the Blades squad in the coming years.