Liverpool’s Pursuit Of Sheffield United Teenager Oliver Arblaster Has Hit A Setback

Liverpool’s Pursuit Of Sheffield United Teenager Oliver Arblaster Has Hit A Setback

Sheffield United’s reported readiness to extend a new contract offer to Oliver Arblaster deals a significant blow to Liverpool’s pursuit of the young talent.

During the first half of the 2023-24 season, the 19-year-old enjoyed a loan spell at Port Vale in League One, featuring in 20 matches and making notable contributions with two goals and one assist. Following Chris Wilder’s appointment as manager, Arblaster was recalled by Sheffield United from his loan stint.

Arblaster, who has represented England at the Under-20 level since his debut in 2023, is now poised for further development at his current club, with Sheffield United reportedly taking steps to secure his future.

According to the report, the Blades, who are facing difficulties, are poised to present the former Bradford Park Avenue player with a fresh contract offer at Bramall Lane in the upcoming days.

It is believed that United are eager to secure Arblaster’s future over the long term, especially given the significant interest from top Premier League clubs.

Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool is reportedly among the teams keeping a close eye on the midfielder’s development, despite him not having made an appearance for the Blades this season.

However, the news of Arblaster nearing a new contract agreement in South Yorkshire casts serious doubt on the possibility of a summer move to Anfield.

Having been recalled from Port Vale in the previous month, the 19-year-old is inching closer to making his debut in the Premier League for Wilder’s struggling team.

Following a crushing 5-0 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion at Bramall Lane on Sunday, Sheffield United currently occupy the bottom spot in the Premier League table, trailing 17th-placed Luton Town by seven points.

Arblaster has appeared in five matches for United so far in his career, including four outings in the Championship last season as Paul Heckingbottom’s side secured promotion.

Seeking just their fourth Premier League victory of the season, Sheffield United – and potentially Arblaster – are set to take on a resurgent Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux on Sunday.