Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom hasn’t ruled out a move to sign ex-Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe.
A number of players were released at the end of their Old Trafford contracts this summer.
Some cost United a fair whack once upon a time with David De Gea and Phil Jones leaving the club.
Others were prospects from the youth ranks with Di’Shon Bernard and Axel Tuanzebe on the move.
Bernard has yet to find himself a new club and neither has Tuanzebe – but the latter does appear to have Premier League interest.
Sheffield United boss comments on Axel Tuanzebe
Reports from The Sun’s Alan Nixon on Saturday suggested that Sheffield United are chasing a deal for Tuanzebe.
It was claimed that the Blades had opened talks for Tuanzebe and he had already undergone medical tests.
Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom has now tackled the subject whilst speaking to the Sheffield Star.
Heckingbottom admitted that Sheffield United are well aware of Tuanzebe’s availability as they have explored all free agents.
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The Blades don’t have a big budget this summer and free agents like Tuanzebe will be very appealing.
Heckingbottom denied the medical though and seemingly isn’t aware of any deal for the defender being on the table.
“Of course we’re looking, he’s a free transfer,” said Heckingbottom. “We know every free transfer on the planet.”
When asked about the alleged medical, Heckingbottom played that down by simply saying ‘first I know’ as well as stating ‘no’ when asked if an agreement was close.
Tuanzebe injury problems a big concern
Tuanzebe rose up through the United ranks having first joined the club at the age of just eight.
Excitement grew as Tuanzebe was on the bench for a Premier League game at just 17 and there were encouraging signs when he did play in the first team.
Tuanzebe has spent most of the last few out on loan, spending three spells with Aston Villa.
Napoli and Stoke City have taken Tuanzebe on loan too, but appearances have been limited due to Tuanzebe’s injury problems.
United thought highly of the 25-year-old but his injury woes meant another contract wasn’t forthcoming.
Tuanzebe could now join Sheffield United and face off against Erik ten Hag’s Red Devils next season – if he can overcome the injury woes.