Why Sheffield United signing Todd Cantwell bolster their squad

According to a report from the Daily Star, Sheffield United are eyeing a £10m raid on Norwich City for the signing of Todd Cantwell.

The 22-year-old Cantwell is a product of the Norwich City youth academy. He made his first-team debut in January 2018, soon after which he was loaned out to Dutch outfit Fortuna Sittard. He made 10 appearances for the club, contributing with two goals and three assists.

Since returning, Cantwell became a regular in the first-team at Carrow Road. Till date, he has featured 64 times for the Canaries. He has netted eight goals and set up four more for his teammates.

Sheffield United need a bigger creative presence

Sheffield United have had a very impressive season since earning promotion from the Championship. While their form has dwindled somewhat since the restart after lockdown, the Blades are in the running for European football next season, for which they need to strengthen the squad.

Sheffield United’s season has been built on a solid defence, but goals and creativity upfront have been a bit of a problem for Chris Wilder’s side.

Indeed, the Blades have scored just 35 goals in their 34 Premier League matches. That is the lowest tally for a team in the top ten of the table. Only Norwich, Bournemouth, Crystal Palace, and Watford have scored fewer goals than the Blades in the competition.

Hence, adding someone like Todd Cantwell would serve them well going forward. The 22-year-old has been one of the brightest players for Norwich City, despite the club staring at the prospect of relegation. In 36 matches across all competitions for Norwich, the Englishman has produced an impressive tally of seven goals and two assists.

Cantwell can play on either flanks or in central areas as well, which would provide added options at the disposal of manager Wilder. In addition, the fact that he has proven his pedigree in the Premier League already would mean he can make immediate impact for the Blades.

Signing the England U21 international would add goals and creativity to this Sheffield United side, which, at the moment, is very much needed. More so, if they end up qualifying for Europe.

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Verdict

Sheffield United have had a fairy tale season so far. The Blades are in contention to qualify for Europe. Even if they fail to do so, they still should strengthen the squad to sustain their current form next season as well.

And adding someone of Cantwell’s qualities would be a step right in the direction. The 22-year-old would bring more creativity and goals to the table. Furthermore, at 22, he has practically his entire career in front of him, making him a long-term prospect.