Sheffield United boss makes Anel Ahmedhodzic transfer claim after Blackburn Rovers interest

Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom has admitted the Blades beat off fierce competition for Anel Ahmedhodzic amid interest from Blackburn Rovers.

Jon Dahl Tomasson had hoped to be reunited with his former defender, who won two Swedish Allsvenskan titles with Malmo under the Dane. However, the 23-year-old has instead moved to the Blades on a permanent deal.

Heckingbottom has revealed his delight at getting the deal over the line with several other interest parties keen to secure his signature. He revealed that United tried to complete a deal in January and continued their interest straight into the summer.

"We tried to get him in January," Paul Heckingbottom said. "We couldn't get the deal over the line, we have tracked him and managed to beat off a number of suitors.

"He is a young player that has played in the Champions League and for his country. The fact we kept in contact and told him what we were about, he wanted to come to us as well which is good for beating off other clubs."

After making the switch to Sheffield, Ahmedhodzic explained that Sheffield United coach Jack Lester paid an important role in his decision. The pair worked together during their time at Nottingham Forest and Lester's influence was a deciding factor for the Bosnian defender.

"It feels amazing," he told Yorkshire Live. "It's been three hectic days, a lot of testing but to be out here with the players is a really good feeling.

"I have had a good feeling from the group. They are nice guys.

"Jack Lester was part of the reason I came here. I really liked him when I was at Nottingham Forest.

"He liked to scream at me but it was what I needed. I realised it after that the time we had together was amazing. I think we can have an even better time