Shane Long has joined Bournemouth on loan until the end of the season (Getty Images)
According to Sheffield Star, Sheffield United are plotting a double swoop for Shane Long and Jermaine Defoe. The Blades have made a great start to their Championship campaign as Chris Wilder’s men are currently 3rd in the standings.
However, Sheffield United need to strengthen their squad depth when the winter transfer window opens in order to sustain their promotion push.
Shane Long has struggled to impress for a Southampton side that has quickly dropped to the relegation spots in recent weeks. As a result, the St. Mary’s side sacked manager Mark Hughes and have replaced him with Ralph Hasenhüttl. Long has made 9 league appearance for the South Coast-based club but is yet to find the back of the net.
The 31-year-old would help bolster Wilder’s options up front. The Ireland international can play as a centre-forward, a secondary striker and a right-winger. His defensive contribution, passing, crossing and indirect set-piece threat would make him a valuable asset for the Bramall Lane side.
With 39 goals and 20 assists in 139 Championship games, Shane Long is no stranger to the division. Having a player of Long’s experience at Bramall Lane would also help the Blades break down stubborn opponents.
Long has registered a total of 48 goals and 20 assists in his 277 Premier League games. However, the forward has slowly slid down Southampton’s pecking order since the arrival of Danny Ings from Liverpool. The Saints also have Charlie Austin, although the striker has struggled with fitness issues so far this season.
Regardless, a move to Steel City would help revitalize Long’s career. The 31-year-old, who has around 18 months left on his contract, is known for his intelligent movement. The striker is energetic and potent and in a team set up to play to his strengths, he has a lot to offer.
Long is yet to score a single goal this season but that could be due to Southampton’s poor form overall. The Cork City academy graduate is hard-working, determined and has previous Championship playoff experience. He is well aware of what it takes and the pressure that a promotion push brings.
The striker, capped over 80 times by Ireland, also links up well with his partners in the final third. Hence, Chris Wilder should swoop in and close a deal for Shane Long as he could be essential to the Blades’ hopes of achieving success this term.
