Exclusive: Sheffield United agree deal to sign Leeds star

Sheffield United have agreed a deal to sign Leeds United star Jamie Shackleton on a free transfer, sources have told Football Insider.

Shackleton’s contract at Leeds expires this weekend, opening the door for the Blades to swoop in and offer him a move across Yorkshire.

It is believed a full agreement is in place and Shackleton will complete the transfer to Bramall Lane in the coming days.

Leeds did look to agree an extension to the 24-year-old’s deal during last season as reported by Football Insider [4 February], but terms could not be settled and Shackleton is set to become Chris Wilder’s first signing of the summer.

Shackleton, a versatile operator who has played in both full-back positions and across the midfield, will be brought in to give more options to Sheffield United with the likes of George Baldock, Oliver Norwood and Max Lowe all departing Bramall Lane.

Injury-stricken Chris Basham has also moved on, whilst loanees Ben Brereton Diaz and Yasser Larouci return to their parent clubs.

Sheffield United move for Shackleton switch

Wilder and Sheffield United are keen to get their business underway early as the club prepare for another Championship dogfight.

Shackleton, who first joined Leeds aged just seven, brings experience of the top two divisions to the Blades’ squad.

He has made 94 appearances across six years in the Leeds first team, battling through various injury struggles.

The utility man’s most progressive season came during a loan spell at Millwall in 2022-23, making 37 appearances in all competitions.

Whilst Leeds have more pressing concerns regarding the sales of players and shaping their squad this summer, the club will be disappointed to lose a successful academy graduate for free.

Elsewhere in Wilder’s Sheffield United squad reshuffle, Football Insider [6 June] understands the club are monitoring the situation of Nottingham Forest man Joe Worrall ahead of a potential move.

In other news, Sheffield United stalwart Norwood is wanted by several Championship rivals.

For more Sheffield United and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.

The post Exclusive: Sheffield United agree deal to sign Leeds star appeared first on Football Insider.