Sheffield United are believed to have moved ahead of several clubs in the race for Rangers defender John Souttar's signature.
After finishing 13th in the 2025/26 Championship, Blades manager Chris Wilder is eager to bolster his ranks ahead of the new campaign and he has managed to bring in attacking midfielder Romelle Donovan from Brentford on a season-long loan.
More incomings are expected at Bramall Lane and it appears that United are close to making a new addition to their defensive ranks, with a deal for Rangers' Souttar in the offing.
Souttar was a regular fixture under former Gers boss Danny Rohl, but his successor, Derek McInnes, has deemed the Scotland international surplus to requirements and he did not travel with the squad for a warm-weather pre-season training camp in Spain.
Initially, it was thought Leicester City were leading the race for the defender, with the fact his younger brother Harry plays for the Foxes said to be a big factor in a switch to the King Power Stadium.
However, Wilder has been an admirer of Souttar for a long time and his efforts to sign the Scot, who represented his country at the 2026 World Cup, look to have paid off.
A permanent deal is believed to be close to completion for Souttar, who only signed a contract extension at Ibrox in February until the summer of 2027.
Blades keen on Matondo
With Souttar's impending Sheffield arrival, another player who could be heading to South Yorkshire this summer is Rabbi Matondo.
The Wales international left Rangers in March 2026 to join SK Brann in a permanent deal, but he has struggled to establish himself in Norway and could be set for a quick departure.
The 25-year-old has made just three Eliteserien appearances, failing to register a single goal contribution, but the Blades could be ready to offer him a lifeline.
Matondo still has time on his side to resurrect his career and United are willing to offer him a chance to do this at Bramall Lane.
It is thought Wilder is looking at both permanent and temporary deals for the winger.
Grant under consideration?
Another player who has been linked with the Blades is Karlan Grant, who is a free agent after failing to agree a new contract at West Brom.
The 28-year-old forward ended a tough 2025/26 season, scoring just four goals in 27 Championship appearances, but he has plenty of experience at this level and could prove to be a shrewd acquisition.
New season approaching
United begin their Championship season with a home fixture against Birmingham City on 15th August.
The Blades are 7/5 to pick up all three points, with a draw priced at 11/5 and Blues 7/4 to claim the spoils.
Wilder's side are 14/1 to win the Championship title, 7/1 for a top-two finish and 4/1 to be promoted.
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.
