Sheffield United signing Jagielka could make them promotion contenders

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If Sheffield United can re-sign Phil Jagielka from Everton they could genuinely target a top six finish.

Everton’s Phil Jagielka

As Phil Jagielka enters the final year of his current contract with Everton, the rumours linking him with a return to Sheffield United refuse to go away.

The Sheffield Star claim that the Blades are interested in bringing Jagielka back to Bramall Lane, but would need him to significantly reduce his wages from the current £50,000-a-week he is paid by the Toffees.

United manager Chris Wilder has refused to rule out a move for the centre-back, but is certainly keeping his cards close to his chest.

“Phil got linked with us because he’s an ex-player and he’s in his final year at Everton,” Wilder told BBC Radio Sheffield.

“It’s fun and games at this time of the season and there’s players who like to put their names out there, there’s agents who like to put their players out there, and there’s journalists who like to put two and two together and usually get seven.”

When asked if ‘that is a no then?’, Wilder laughed and responded: “Next question.”

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder

Yet bringing Jagielka back to South Yorkshire would represent a huge coup for the club as they prepare for life back in the Championship following a five year absence.

In fact, rather than them concentrating on avoiding the drop in 2017/18, the presence of an experienced Premier League and international defender could make them genuine promotion contenders.

Andriy Shevchenko – Chelsea in action against Phil Jagielka – Sheffield United

It is only Jagielka’s links with the Blades – he came through their youth system and spent seven years in the first team – that would tempt him into the second tier. In truth, the 34-year-old is still good enough for the top flight.

With 349 appearances for Everton, 40 caps for England, and huge amounts of leadership qualities, the veteran could make the difference between a good and a great season, both on and off the pitch.