Sheffield United weighing up offer for Derby and Watford target as interest from Italy in ‘huge talent’ hots up

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Sheffield United’s summer transfer business is far from over and EFL Analysis can exclusively reveal the Blades have now set their sights on a Scotland international.

It’s been a tough start to the campaign for the Yorkshire outfit, losing three in a row at the hands of Bristol City, Birmingham and Swansea in all competitions.

Selles recently took aim at the club’s recruitment, branding it as ‘not good enough’. After losing Anel Ahmedhodzic to Feyenoord, there have been defensive concerns, with even captain Jack Robinson questioned in the Blades’ opening performances.

However, the former Reading and Hull boss could soon receive some much needed reinforcements, and EFL Analysis can exclusively reveal Sheffield United travelled to scout out a potential new addition at right back – but they will need to shake off rivals to sign him.

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Exclusive: Sheffield United watched Max Johnston in Sturm Graz win

EFL Analysis understands a host of clubs watched Scottish international Max Johnston at the weekend as he looks set to move before the end of the window.

We can exclusively reveal that Sheffield United were amongst the teams who saw Sturm Graz claim a 3-1 win over SV Ried and Johnston had an outstanding game, with an assist and a goal to his name.

The right-back – the subject of bids from Derby and Watford already this summer – is attracting the attention of a string of clubs. Whilst both Derby and Watford remain keen, the Blades are now weighing up an offer for the highly-rated Scottish international.

However, we can reveal interest is strong from Italy. Bologna – where Johnston’s fellow countryman Lewis Ferguson is captain – are very keen.

Hellas Verona are also showing an interest as they look to replace Jackson Tchatchoua – who is set to join Wolves.

EFL Analysis Football Correspondent Graeme Bailey said: “Johnston is a huge talent, he has been brilliant in Austria since moving and now he is ready to move again and it could very well be in England, but the interest from Italy is very strong and they are set to make a big push for him.”

Last week, it was reported Derby are preparing to make a third bid for the Scotland international, with £1.4m and £1.6m approaches already being turned down.

Where has Max Johnston played before?

21-year-old Johnston was born in Middlesbrough but began his youth career at Scottish side Motherwell.

He rose through their academy before going on senior loans to Queen of the South and then Cove Rangers.

The defender became a Motherwell regular and won the SFWA Young Player of the Year award for the 2022/23 season.

He joined Sturm Graz in 2023, signing a deal with the Austrian Bundesliga club until 2027.

Johnston is also a Scotland international, earning his first and only cap so far in March of this year.

He was a late substitute for former Norwich star Billy Gilmour in a Nations League victory over Greece.