Sources: Sheff Utd to sell Liverpool-linked star for cut-price fee as contract dilemma forces Sander Berge decision
Sheffield United are ready to sell star midfielder Sander Berge for just £10million this summer, TEAMtalk understands.
Berge joined Sheff Utd from Belgian side Genk for £22million in January 2020, midway through the Blades’ brilliant first Premier League season under Chris Wilder. Since then, Berge has made 109 appearances for the club, going through a relegation and then promotion with them.
Berge played an important role in Sheff Utd gaining promotion back to the top flight in the season just finished, registering six goals and five assists in 37 Championship games.
While Paul Heckingbottom views Berge as an important part of his squad, sources have told TEAMtalk Sheff Utd will reluctantly listen to offers for Berge this summer as they look to raise funds for their own transfer plans.
Berge’s future at Bramall Lane has been the subject of speculation for some time, with the Norwegian poised to enter the final year of his contract and not considering signing a new deal.
Sheff Utd are now prepared to cash in on Berge rather than risking him running down his contract and potentially leaving on a free transfer in summer 2024. TEAMtalk understands the Blades have placed a £10m valuation on his head. This will see them take a £12m loss on his original transfer fee.
A number of clubs in England and across Europe are understood to be monitoring the 25-year-old’s situation.
Sheff Utd man has been a target for Liverpool and Chelsea
The likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Newcastle were all linked with moves for Berge in the January window. Ultimately, Sheff Utd held strong and managed to keep his services, but they will not be able to do that this time around.
News of Berge’s availability at a reduced price is sure to spark a scramble for his signature.