Coventry City are hoping to complete a deal that would see former midfielder Gus Hamer return to the club this summer from Sheffield United.
Hamer was with the Sky Blues for three years between 2020 and 2023 and is thought to be keen on a reunion as City prepare for their first Premier League campaign in 25 years.
Hamer quality needed for new boys
A return for Hamer to the Midlands would be a significant capture for Frank Lampard ahead of the big kick-off with the Brazilian-born playmaker's experience vital, the 29-year-old having made 345 club appearances in his career.
The vast majority of them came in the Championship with the Sky Blues and the Blades - Hamer was a virtual ever-present at Coventry for three seasons in the second tier - before making the switch to Bramall Lane three years ago.
Reports indicate the deal is a bit complicated because Sheff Utd still owe City some of the £15million fee they agreed in 2023.
However, that should all form part of the negotiations and could, in effect, speed up talks if the two clubs can come to a new financial arrangement quickly.
Hamer a proven performer
The midfielder, who scored 19 goals and weighed in with 24 assists in his first spell at Coventry, was excellent for the Blades, adding 22 goals and 29 assists to his record for them.
His fine performances in the Championship were recognised when he was named EFL Championship Player of the Season in April last year.
He would add nous, guile and a competitive edge in Coventry's midfield as Lampard continues to reshape his squad for the top-flight.
The Sky Blues boss knows he needs more quality as he hopes to ensure his side survive this season and he has already added another midfielder in Frank Onyeka to his squad on a permanent deal from Brentford this summer, while centre-back Aurele Amenda has arrived from Eintracht Frankfurt.
In addition, winger Loum Tchaouna has joined from Burnley and it appears Hamer will be next through the doors at the CBS Arena.
Sky Blues among relegation candidates
Coventry's promotion from the Championship last term was impressive but they are immediately installed among the favourites to go straight back down with Lampard's men 8/13 to be relegated from the Premier League this season.
Play-off winners Hull City are 1/4 to go down, while the other side promoted in May, Ipswich Town, are 4/6 to go down.
On a more positive note, Coventry are 6/5 to stay up, Ipswich are 11/10 and Hull 11/4 to survive.
New season starts with toughest test
Coventry's first game back in the top flight couldn't be any tougher as they go to champions Arsenal on the opening night on August 21st, a game Lampard's men are a huge 12/1 to win, with the Gunners 1/6 and a draw available at 6/1.
After that, Coventry face Hull at home before another difficult test at Manchester City in early September.
Lampard's side drew 0-0 with Northampton Town in their first summer friendly earlier this month and take on Spanish side Espanyol on August 8th, before another big friendly game follows against Ligue 1 side Monaco on August 14th.
This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.
