Sheffield United have held initial talks with striker Oli McBurnie about a potential return to the club, as the 29-year-old weighs up his next move following his release by UD Las Palmas.
McBurnie, who made 131 appearances for the Blades during his first spell and was once a £20 million club-record signing, is now available on a free transfer. According to The Star, discussions between McBurnie and the Bramall Lane hierarchy have already taken place this summer.
The Scotland international is attracting interest from several Championship clubs, including Swansea City, Hull City, and Ipswich Town, but Sheffield United are hopeful that emotional ties and unfinished business could tip the scales in their favour.
McBurnie assessing options after Spanish stint
McBurnie left Bramall Lane following United’s relegation from the Premier League in 2024 and signed for Las Palmasin La Liga. He scored five goals in Spain’s top flight last season, but following the club’s relegation, his contract was terminated, leaving him free to return to England.
Hull City boss Sergej Jakirovic has gone public with his admiration for the player, while Swansea remain keen on a reunion with their former academy product. Ipswich are also understood to be monitoring the situation.
The striker recently returned to South Yorkshire, where he was spotted playing golf with former Blade Matt Kilgallonand linked up with David McGoldrick, now at Barnsley. United boss Ruben Selles is said to be a fan of McBurnie’s profile and could offer a short-term deal to bolster the club’s attacking depth.
Still capable at Championship level?
McBurnie’s best Championship season came in 2022/23, when he hit double figures and was a key figure for United under Chris Wilder. While now entering his thirties, his work rate, hold-up play and aerial presence remain valuable assets in a physically demanding league.
With United in need of reinforcements and homegrown experience, a return could benefit both parties. A decision on his future is expected before the start of the new campaign.
📊 Key FotMob Stats – 2024/25 La Liga (Las Palmas):
• 28 appearances, 5 goals, 1 assist
• 1,883 minutes played, 21 starts
• Average match rating: 6.65
• Percentile rank among La Liga strikers:
• 70th for aerial duels won
• 68th for shots on target
• 61st for fouls drawn
🟥 ZONE RUMOURED
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