Paul Heckingbottom makes admission after latest Sheffield United transfer swoop

Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom has revealed that he tried to sign Anel Ahmedhodžić in January after finally landing the defender.

The Blades saw off plenty of competition to land the centre-back from Malmo on a permanent basis, in a deal that is seen as a real coup for the Championship side.

And, speaking to the club’s media, Heckingbottom confirmed that Ahmedhodžić could have been a Sheffield United player earlier this year but they failed to get a transfer over the line in the winter window.

“Anel is someone we tried to get in January but we have tracked his progress, stayed in touch and managed to beat off a number of suitors. He had a desire to come back to England and what has stuck in his head is that we were early with our interest, got in ahead of a number of other clubs, identified him as a major target and sold the club to him. The connection has been important.

“We’ve had to pay a fee for him, we have managed to get the deal over the line which is great, he will be an important player for us. It is important we use every market as we continue to build our squad for the season.”

The Bosnian international has linked up with his new teammates as they continue their preparations ahead of the new season.

The verdict

All connected to Sheffield United deserve credit for getting this deal over the line and as the manager says, it’s a process that began last season.

Clearly, during those talks it went well but you can understand why Ahmedhodžić wanted to go and play in the top-flight in France.

Now, the Blades have got their man and it’s a very exciting signing given the potential and ability the centre-back has.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.

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