Relegation is imminent for Sheffield United. Although not mathematically confirmed yet, the Blades appear destined to spend next season in the second tier after two years in the top flight.
A potential exodus is on the cards, as it so often is for sides that lose their Premier League status. For a variety of reasons, the current crop of players has failed to produce for large spells and for many, their inability to contribute enough is likely to spell the end of their time at Bramall Lane.
For others, their performances have warranted another season in the promised land. We have selected five players we think may not be lining up for the Blades when the 2021/22 campaign kicks off.
Kean Bryan
Few saw a future for Bryan before he was brought in from the cold by Chris Wilder. He had previously been shipped out on loan to Bolton Wanderers, who he could not prevent slipping into League Two, and his Premier League prospects appeared bleak. However, the 24-year-old defender found himself thrust into the side last November, and after overcoming a calf injury over the Christmas period, found himself appearing in the Blades backline fairly regularly. He appeared well-placed for a new deal under Wilder, but with his former boss gone and his contract on the verge of expiration, an exit seems likely.
John Lundstram
The midfielder rejected a new deal last October, and his contract is now just months away from expiring. His performances have been mostly subpar as the Blades have struggled to keep their head above water, and his poor display in the recent defeat to Leeds United earned him plenty of online criticism from the Bramall Lane faithful. The 27-year-old has been linked with Burnley and Crystal Palace, and it would be best for both parties if the club and player went their separate ways.
Sander Berge
Before being struck by injury, Berge was a shining light for the strugglers in the first half of the season. A powerful runner and adept passer, the Norway international is almost certain to attract admirers. Heavyweights such as Liverpool have been linked with a swoop for the 23-year-old and may prove difficult to fend off.
Jack Rodwell
A forgotten man at Bramall Lane, Rodwell has not made a single Premier League appearance for the club this season. The 30-year-old’s contract expires in the summer, and if a new deal was offered, it would be a shock to say the least. Formerly one of the most promising young talents in English football, the former Manchester City man has endured a turbulent few years and his move to Sheffield United certainly hasn’t worked out.
Oli McBurnie
The Scotland international has struggled in front of goal this season, netting just once in the Premier League. However, reports have suggested he may be handed a top flight lifeline by Wolves. If an offer is put on a table, it is hard to imagine that the forward would say no, and even harder to imagine the Blades rejecting a bid in the first place.