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Nobody quite knows what the future holds for Sheffield United right now, but we’ve taken a shot at how the Blades could line up come the start of the 2025/26 campaign.
After missing out on automatic promotion in 2024/25, many had expected Sheffield United to go up via the play-offs. However, a dramatic Sunderland victory denied Chris Wilder that glory.
Now, as friction emerges behind the scenes, we could see Wilder replaced as Sheffield United manager this summer, which would leave the club eyeing up a full rebuild.
Big players are expected to leave Bramall Lane rather than stay in the Championship, which means new recruits will be needed.
Here’s how we think the Sheffield United starting XI could look by the start of the new campaign.
- READ MORE: Alan Biggs ‘not convinced’ over Sheffield United owners as Chris Wilder uncertainty looms
What Sheffield United’s starting XI could look like come August
Michael Cooper
While Michael Cooper has been linked with Everton already this summer, it’s unlikely the Blades ‘keeper would move on and sit on the bench at a Premier League club. We expect him to stay put, and become the best in the Championship next season.
Kyle Walker
An ambitious return to Bramall Lane for Kyle Walker is not entirely outside the realms of possibility, with United hoping Man City will help facilitate that exit through a loan deal or by paying off the veteran’s contract. He may be 35, but he would be an incredible signing for the Blades.
Jimmy Dunne
After being linked with him for months now, it seems Jimmy Dunne will end up at Sheffield United this summer. He’s available for nothing with his QPR contract coming to an end, and would be an ideal replacement for Anel Ahmedhodzic, who is likely to be sold.
Chris Mepham
We’re told Sheffield United could win the race to sign Chris Mepham this summer, with the Bournemouth man more likely to end up in the Championship than joining the likes of Sunderland or Burnley. Jack Robinson will remain at the club, but must surely be a peripheral figure from now on.
Harrison Burrows
He was one of Sheffield United’s top performers in 2024/25 and has firmly established himself as one of the best players in the Championship now. Whether Wilder remains or not, Harrison Burrows will be key for the Blades next season.
- READ MORE: All Sheffield United incomings and outgoings this summer, plus the latest transfer rumours
Oli Arblaster
Having missed the second half of last season through injury, United will feel like they have a new signing with Oli Arblaster back in the team. He will likely be the club captain moving forward, too.
Sydie Peck
Another player likely to depart this summer is Vini Souza, but thanks to the development of Sydie Peck last season, United already have a top midfielder ready to step in and make that midfield role his own. Peck is combative, passionate, and has a great engine, and will form a dream partnership with fellow academy graduate Arblaster.
Tyrhys Dolan
It’s still unclear whether Tyrhys Dolan will commit to Blackburn or move on, but if he does become a free agent this summer he will be one of the most sought-after stars in the Championship. United desperately need some real quality on the right-hand side, and Dolan would be ideal.
Gustavo Hamer
Despite being linked with a Sheffield United exit this summer, Gustavo Hamer is thought to be open to staying put. If he does, it could be the biggest success in the transfer market the Blades could hope for ahead of the new season. Of all the players rumoured to leave, he is the one they’ll want to keep most, so we’ll assume they can persuade him to remain with the team for one more year.
Tyrese Campbell
Having hit double figures last season, Tyrese Campbell is actually Sheffield United’s biggest goal threat, and they’ll be hoping for more of the same in 2025/26. The only problem is, he needs a strike partner who can take the pressure off him.
Youssef Chermiti
Recent reports linked Sheffield United with Youssef Chermiti, but they could be waiting a while to get the Everton striker as the Toffees decide whether they need him or not. If they can bag the Portuguese youngster, they’ll have a real livewire on their hands.