Porto has expressed interest in acquiring Sheffield United’s central defender Anel Ahmedhodzic before the summer transfer window closes. According to a report from Sky Sports Transfer Centre on August 29, 2024, the Portuguese club has entered the race to sign the Bosnia and Herzegovina international.
Ahmedhodzic, who joined Sheffield United from Malmo in the summer of 2022, played a crucial role in their promotion to the Premier League during his first season. However, he could not prevent the team from relegating back to the Championship the following season. This setback has fueled ongoing speculation about his future at the club.
As the transfer deadline approaches, Ahmedhodzic’s potential new destinations are being closely watched. Several Premier League teams have shown interest in the defender this summer, including Wolves and Ipswich Town, though no deals have been finalized.
Now, Porto has emerged as a serious contender to secure Ahmedhodzic’s services. The urgency increases with the transfer window closing in less than two days. Ahmedhodzic made his return to Sheffield United’s squad for their recent League Cup match against Barnsley after missing their Championship game against Norwich City due to illness.
With two years remaining on his contract, which extends through the end of the 2025/26 season, Sheffield United is in a strong position to negotiate any offers that come in before the deadline. The club has had a mixed start to the season with one win and two draws in their league matches, placing them 11th in the table. They are set to face second-placed Watford at Bramall Lane on Sunday.
Porto, which finished third in the Portuguese league last season, will compete in the Europa League this year. They are currently second in the Primeira Liga, having won all three of their league games so far this season. Given their need for defensive reinforcements due to Pepe’s retirement and Fabio Cardoso’s loan move to Al-Ain, Porto’s interest in Ahmedhodzic is not surprising.
The continued interest in Ahmedhodzic highlights his value as a player and could be a concern for Sheffield United. Losing him would be a significant blow, especially with the transfer window closing soon and limited time to find a replacement. As the deadline approaches, it will be crucial to watch whether Porto intensifies their efforts to bring Ahmedhodzic on board, offering him the chance to compete for trophies and European football with the Portuguese giants.
