Former Premier League striker Gabby Agbonlahor has tipped Sheffield United defender George Baldock to move to Scottish giants Celtic this summer.
The Lowdown: Sheffield United face multiple exits ahead of 2021/22
Looking ahead to 2021/22, newly-appointed Blades boss Slavisa Jokanovic will be desperate to keep the core of his prize assets together in order to mount a promotion challenge this season.
In recent times, Aaron Ramsdale and Sander Berge have been linked with moves to Arsenal as the summer transfer window continues.
However, former Aston Villa icon Agbonlahor has tipped Baldock to be the first Bramall Lane departure this summer in a recent interview with Football Insider.
The Latest: Agbonlahor tips Baldock to leave Bramall Lane
Speaking about whether the right-back could make an impression in Scotland, the 34-year-old stated: “I do.
“I’ve really liked him at Sheffield United since they came into the Premier League. He looks so calm on the ball with his passing, he’s energetic going forwards and backwards.
“He’s passionate so he suits the Scottish league and a big club like Celtic.
“For me, that’s something that I’d definitely try and get it done and over the line.” [Football Insider].
The Verdict: Baldock saga could drag on for quite some time
Agbonlahor rightly points out the calmness and stability which Baldock has brought to the Sheffield United backline. In 2020/21, he made 34 appearances for the Blades, registering two assists [Transfermarkt].
Showing his defensive instincts, the 28-year-old made 127 recoveries across the campaign [premierleague.com] whilst also averaging 1.9 clearances per match [WhoScored].
Expected to be an important player for the Yorkshiremen next season if he stays, Sheffield United supporters may well be praying that Baldock is priced out of any move north of the border. With Celtic ready to pay £5m to £8m for his services [The Star], this saga seems unlikely to die down any time soon.
In other news, this pundit has praised an ex-Sheffield United midfielder after he joined a new club.