Leeds United: Sheffield United Gain Advantage in Callum O’Hare Transfer Pursuit
According to journalist Graham Smyth, Leeds United is not on the verge of signing Callum O’Hare, despite reported interest from Sheffield United in the former Coventry City midfielder.
Earlier this week, The Star reported that Sheffield United is keen on signing 26-year-old Callum O’Hare following his departure from Coventry City. O’Hare, whose contract expired at the beginning of the month, is now a free agent and can negotiate with new clubs.
During his time with the Sky Blues, O’Hare earned significant praise, contributing six goals and three assists in 31 Championship appearances last season after recovering from a lengthy injury (stats from Fbref). However, he could not agree on new terms with Coventry following their failure to secure promotion, leading to his exit.
Journalist Graham Smyth has suggested that Leeds United is unlikely to pursue O’Hare this summer, despite his availability as a free agent. Smyth noted that no deal is imminent with Leeds, potentially allowing Sheffield United to step in and secure his signature.
“I would still love to see a number 10 come in,” Smyth said on the Inside Elland Road podcast. “At the minute, I don’t get the feeling that it’s going to be O’Hare because we’re told there’s nothing imminent right now with him from Leeds, and I don’t get the feeling they’re chasing that one as an urgent priority.”
This situation could benefit Sheffield United, who aim to build a team capable of fighting for promotion to the Premier League next season. The Blades were relegated from the top flight last season, finishing 20th. Manager Chris Wilder is now focused on strengthening the squad for a top-two finish in the Championship in 2025.
Leeds United, meanwhile, has had a busy start to the summer transfer window. The club is trying to retain key players like Crysencio Summerville and Wilfried Gnonto. However, Archie Gray has moved to Tottenham Hotspur in a deal worth £40 million, while defender Joe Rodon has joined Leeds permanently for a reported £10 million after impressing on loan last season.
If Leeds does not pursue O’Hare, Sheffield United could be well-positioned to sign him. Despite interest from Premier League clubs like West Ham, a move to another Championship side might feel like a lateral step for O’Hare, particularly since Coventry also has promotion ambitions.
Leeds’ decision not to prioritize O’Hare is intriguing, especially given his free-agent status and potential fit with manager Daniel Farke’s style. Nevertheless, this could ultimately work in Sheffield United’s favor.
