The Everton centre-back spent nearly a decade on Sheffield United’s books.
Everton defender Phil Jagielka
Everton’s Phil Jagielka has responded to speculation linking him with a surprise move to Sheffield United.
Manchester-born Jagielka began his career at United, but left for Everton after the Blades’ relegation from the Premier League in 2007.
Yet with one year left on his contract on Merseyside, it has been suggested that the 34-year-old could be on his way as the Toffees look to recruit another centre-back.
And according to the bookies it is Sheffield United who lead the race to sign him, with Sky Bet listing the Blades as clear favourites ahead of Stoke City.
But when asked if there was anything in the rumour, Jagielka told Talksport’s Hawksbee & Jacobs show on Tuesday: “If there was, obviously I wouldn’t be coming on the radio discussing it! That is a nice try.
“I’ve heard the rumours myself, but as of yet there’s nothing in that.”
Former Sheffield United defender Phil Jagielka
United, who are expected to strengthen in Jagielka’s position, have adopted a shrewd approach during this summer’s transfer window, bringing in four new faces at a collective cost of circa £1 million so far.
But with former Blade Kyle Walker looking set to follow Harry Maguire in netting his old side a significant sell-on fee in the coming weeks [it is claimed United are due 10 per cent of any profit made by Tottenham on the right-back’s £5 million transfer], there could be room yet for a marquee signing such as Jagielka.
Tottenham Hotspur defender Kyle Walker
Nevertheless, the England international is said to earn £50,000 a week at Everton [Daily Star], and would perhaps need to take a significant pay cut to sign for Chris Wilder’s men.
Wilder recently admitted his unease at recruiting players on significantly higher wages than others.
Could Jagielka rejoin Sheffield United from Everton this summer?
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