Sheffield United Make Statement Signing; What Does the Midfielder Add to the Blades?

Sheffield United have confirmed the signing of Braga midfielder Djibril Soumare on a season-long loan, with an obligation to buy should the club secure promotion back to the Premier League in the upcoming season.

The 22-year-old Senegalese midfielder arrives at Bramall Lane having spent last season on loan at Nacional in Portugal, where he made 23 appearances, scoring once and registering one assist in the Primeira Liga. Known for his physicality and ball-winning abilities at the base of midfield, Soumare is seen as a like-for-like replacement for Vincius Souza, who recently completed a move to Bundesliga side VfL Wolfsburg.

Djibril Soumare on Following in Iliman Ndiaye’s Footsteps at Sheffield United

Speaking about his arrival in South Yorkshire, Soumare said to the club’s media: “I am delighted to be here; it is a real honour to sign for Sheffield United and I’m really excited to come to England and test myself in English football. I’ve had some good experiences playing in Portugal, but this was a great opportunity for me and it was something which appealed immediately when I first heard about United’s interest.”

The midfielder also referenced a former Blades fan favourite who inspired many young players from Senegal: “I was born in Senegal and Sheffield United is a club which is well known back home because of the impact of Iliman Ndiaye. He’s set the standard here, and it is fantastic for me to follow in his footsteps.”

What Soumare Adds to the Blades

After Souza’s departure, the Blades have had limited senior options in central midfield in pre-season. Only Gustavo Hamer and Sydie Peck are recognised central midfielders currently available, with Callum O’Hare, a natural attacking midfielder, often filling in on the right side of a midfield three.

Soumare’s arrival addresses that area. His strong tackling and positional awareness will add steel to the midfield, while his dribbling ability and composure under pressure offer United an outlet in transition. At 6ft1 and naturally left-footed, he also brings much-needed balance and physical presence to Ruben Selles’ squad.

Soumare’s ability to carry the ball through midfield and contribute to counterattacks could prove a key asset in the Championship, where transitions are often decisive.

It’s a very smart signing by Sheffield United which could lead to a permanent deal being made if Selles secures promotion this coming term. The 22-year-old certainly has a high ceiling, even those at Braga thought the same. Unfortunately, a change in tactical approach and the need to make funds and a squad position available saw him go on loan for Nacional last season, again where he impressed. And he’ll be looking to show the English fans just how good he can be at Bramall Lane.