A report from the Yorkshire Post claims that Sheffield United believe they have a ‘strong chance’ of signing Tom Lawrence on a free transfer – amid interest from Ibrox club Rangers and Premier League side Leeds United.
Lawrence, 28, is a free agent after leaving Derby County following their relegation and financial collapse. The Rams have since been bought in the last week, making six signings already – including Conor Hourihane.
Reports state that it is not only Rangers, Leeds and Sheffield United looking at the Wales international. Everton are also keen, as are Rangers’ Old Firm rivals Everton. As things stand, Lawrence remains available on a free transfer.
It comes after an impressive season on a personal level for Lawrence, in which he captained Derby for much of the campaign. In 38 games, he had a hand in 16 goals – scoring 11 and creating five. But Sheffield United are favourites.
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That is after Yorkshire Post journalist Nathan Hemmingham held a Q&A session on Thursday. Asked about Lawrence, Hemmingway said that the Blades have a “strong chance” of completing a deal for the free agent.
“The club are trying on Tom and they stand a strong chance. He fits that bill. Can play as a forward or a number 10 so if they get that deal done I think that would be the forward department taken care of,” Hemmingham said.
Sheffield United have ‘strong chance’ of Lawrence signing
So, which club is best for Lawrence? As a 23-time Wales international, he will want to join a side where he is getting regular game time to ensure he is picked by Rob Page this summer.
A move to the Premier League will be tempting, but he should avoid it. He would struggle to start for Leeds or Everton. Sheffield United would be much more ideal, given that Lawrence would surely be one of the first names to start.
But a move north of the border, to Rangers or Celtic, would suit Lawrence the most. Champions League football, fighting for silverware, but with a much better chance of game time – and more games to play. No-brainer.
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