Sheffield United and Preston have both made offers for Chelsea defender Alfie Gilchrist, who is expected to make a decision on his future this week.
The 20-year-old, who can play right-back or centre-back, broke into the first squad under Mauricio Pochettino last season and appeared in 11 Premier League games.
However, it has been agreed that a temporary relocation would be ideal for his development, and journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed that both Championship clubs are vying for Gilchrist’s signature.
“Alfie Gilchrist has received two loan offers from Preston and Sheffield United.” He is leaving Chelsea on loan and will not attend the US pre-season tour since he will decide on his preferred destination in the coming days.”
Chelsea had a terrible year overall last season, with many fans questioning many players’ passion and ambition at various periods.
But that couldn’t be said of Gilchrist, whose attitude and determination were refreshing for the Blues fans, as the academy graduate was clearly thrilled to be making his mark at a club near to his heart.
However, he has realised that he needs to move away to receive game time, thus a loan move is the best option at this point in his career.
As a result, Gilchrist is certain to choose a club that will give him the opportunity to play, and he understands that he will need to perform regularly to maintain his spot in the XI.
You can see why Sheffield United and Preston are interested in Gilchrist, and it’s surprising that more clubs aren’t vying for his signature.
Anyone who saw Gilchrist play last season will notice that he is an old-school defender who is willing to put his head where it hurts and does not back out of tackles.
So he should be able to handle the physicality of the Championship, yet, like many young players, he needs to improve certain aspects of his game in order to become a more complete defender.
From Sheffield United and Preston’s perspective, they will see Gilchrist as a talent, and it’s worth remembering he will be coming from what is undoubtedly one of the best academies in the country.
Sheffield United and Preston need defensive reinforcements
Chris Wilder has overseen significant changes at Bramall Lane this summer, and the reality is that his squad must improve ahead of the new season.
Defensively, Jayden Bogle has departed for Leeds United, and George Baldock has also left this summer, so right-back is an apparent position that has to be filled, which is where Gilchrist would likely play.
Meanwhile, Ryan Lowe will be seeking to add quality to his North End squad as they strive for a play-off spot, and Gilchrist would undoubtedly fall into that category.
Finally, it appears like this will be resolved fairly quickly, and it will be interesting to see who takes Gilchrist in, as it will be a coup for any team he joins.
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