Sheffield United’s first signing of the summer becomes clear as Chris Wilder’s ‘rebuilding’ process begins

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It’s been a difficult few days for Sheffield United, and after the heartbreak of Saturday’s defeat to Sunderland, Chris Wilder now has to pick up the pieces ahead of a vital summer transfer window.

The Championship play-off final was a disaster for the Blades once again, as Tommy Watson secured victory for the Black Cats in the 95th minute of the contest at Wembley.

It was a day to forget for the South Yorkshire outfit, and despite taking the lead through Tyrese Campbell in the 25th minute, they were denied their place back in the Premier League following relegation 12 months ago.

Now, Wilder has to find a way to galvanise Sheffield United ready for next season, and he has already identified his first target as he looks for promotion in 2025/26.

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Sheffield United will move back in for Jimmy Dunne after January rejection

Queens Park Rangers are currently in the midst of a managerial saga that supporters will be hoping does not plague their summer, but they may just be set to lose one of their star players in the coming weeks.

As per Alan Nixon, Sheffield United are moving back in for Jimmy Dunne in the transfer window, with the defender’s contract at Loftus Road set to expire at the end of June.

Nixon said on the potential deal: “Sheffield United will start their rebuilding programme with a move for QPR centre-half Jimmy Dunne. Chris Wilder wanted Dunne in the January window but couldn’t agree on a fee as Rangers forced their defender out of the move.

“However, Dunne will be free to join the Blades and give them a senior centre-half for next season. Wilder had to chop and change in that department and will be glad to get his next campaign going quickly.”

• READ MORE – Forget Gustavo Hamer, another ‘incredible’ Sheffield United star could exit after play-off defeat

Chris Wilder knows how important it is to get the right defenders in

After Harry Souttar’s season-ending injury back in January, Sheffield United have lacked that bit of quality next to Anel Ahmedhodzic in the heart of the defence, but Dunne will provide that.

At 27, the centre-back, who also has plenty of experience at right-back, is entering his prime and securing a free transfer would be a huge coup – especially if the Blades do lose some of their key players this summer.

Avoiding the play-offs will be Wilder’s target in 2025/26, with Sheffield United’s awful record in the competition rearing its head once again at the weekend, but they have the chance to be the pacesetters in the Championship next season.

Building a solid base to work from is vital, and the Blades’ pursuit of Dunne is proof that they are not willing to rest on their laurels after their heartbreaking end to the campaign.