Sheffield United have opened talks to re-sign Everton midfielder Kieran Dowell, according to reliable journalist Alan Nixon.
The Blades took the 21-year-old on loan last season, where he made 22 appearances in all competitions.
Earlier on Sunday, the Sun had reported that the newly-promoted side were keen on a move for Dowell.
But writing on his personal Twitter later in the day, Nixon went one better, claiming that talks were underway.
He said: “Sheff U. In talks to get Dowell back from Everton.
“Prefer a loan but it would mean their Prem limit is reached if [Dean] Henderson comes back too.”
SHEFF U. In talks to get Dowell back from EVERTON. Prefer a loan but it would mean their Prem limit is reached if Henderson comes back too.
— Alan Nixon (@reluctantnicko) June 2, 2019
Good move for Everton?
Yes, especially if they can secure a loan. At 21, Dowell needs to be playing regular football, and he would definitely get to do that at Sheffield United. If the Blades had failed to go up, you could perhaps have argued that he needed to be looking at other options, but the fact that they are now in the top flight makes this a no brainer. Dowell is unlikely to get a look in with the Toffees this season, but if he can go out and prove himself in the Premier League, it could well be that he ends up impressing enough to get his shot next time around.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
Dowell seems relatively surplus to requirements at Goodison Park, and the Blades are clearly keen to take him back to Bramall Lane. There doesn’t appear to be anything that could stand in the way of this one, and no logical reason why any of the involved parties would object. It makes sense from all sides, and it feels more likely to happen than not, truth be told. The only hiccup could be if the two teams can’t agree on whether to make the deal permanent or not, but even then, that shouldn’t happen.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10