Sunderland to keep tabs on Sheffield United striker Billy Sharp after Chris Wilder admission

Phil Parkinson admits that Sunderland will keep tabs on Sheffield United striker Billy Sharp’s availability this month.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Chris Wilder has put a host of clubs on red alert after admitting that he will allow the 33-year-old to seek regular football elsewhere, should he want it.

The Black Cats pushed hard to try and sign Sharp last summer but were unsuccessful, the striker going on to plunder 23 goals in their remarkable promotion campaign.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

If available, Sharp would likely find himself with a host of Championship suitors. Middlesbrough, Leeds United and Nottingham Forest have all been credited with an interest.

Sheffield United striker Billy Sharp could be available this monthSheffield United striker Billy Sharp could be available this month
Sheffield United striker Billy Sharp could be available this month

Parkinson has a number of striking targets in his sight, including free agent Kyle Lafferty and Burton Albion striker Liam Boyce.

He says the club must be alert to developments regarding any options right throughout the leagues nevertheless.

“We saw that news and it’s been mentioned within our recruitment team and staff that he’s a good player,” Parkinson said.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The club have tried to get him in the past, and goalscorers much sought after.

Billy has a good record, we’re looking at a lot of players, we’ve spent a lot of time on it.

“Every day you’ve got to treat as if it’s the last day, working hard and looking at every single player [potentially becoming available], comparing them to ones we’ve looked at and talked about, laing sure we’re getting the best of the type of player that we want.”

Wilder wants Sharp to stay at Bramall Lane but admits a departure is possible.

“The decision is with Bill,” he said.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“If he comes to me and says he needs to go, of course I'll respect that.

“If I was a top Championship club trying to get into the Premier League and needing a few goals, I'd ask the question but we’ll need him too before the end of the season.

“Our need is a greater one, or as great as those clubs in the Championship.

“If we receive bids from anybody we’ll assess and do what’s right for the football club.