Jonty Banks

Wed 31 May 2023 10:17, UK

Time is running out for Everton to decide on the future of Conor Coady at Goodison Park, with Sheffield United reportedly monitoring the defender’s situation.

The England international joined the club on a season-long loan last summer from Wolves and was one of the first names on the teamsheet under Frank Lampard, however under new boss Sean Dyche, he has largely been reduced to cameo appearances from the bench.

The Toffees have an option to make the deal a permanent move for £4.5million this summer, but there is speculation of whether they will trigger this after falling out of favour in the first-team. [iNews, 2 May]

Speaking to Football League World, BBC pundit Carlton Palmer shared his verdict on Sheffield United’s interest in the Wolves loanee. [Daily Mail, 29 May]

“Sheffield United are monitoring Coady’s situation, and he is believed to be interested in staying up north due to his family,” he said.

“He played previously at Sheffield United on loan, he knows the club, he knows it well, and would maybe be interested in a loan, if not a permanent move, if United could afford the fee and his salary.”

Sean Dyche admitted on 2 April that the centre-back’s future on Merseyside would be finalised when the club knew their fate for next season, but Everton could be caught napping by Sheffield United before they know it.

Although the 30-year-old remained on the bench for 11 consecutive games in the relegation run-in, he made his presence known when he came into the starting lineup for the final day of the season showdown against Bournemouth.

In a back five alongside Yerry Mina and James Tarkowski, Coady was simply outstanding, and his leadership on the pitch was evident from the offset.

At just £4.5million, the Toffees could rue the chance to snap up the defender on a permanent contract this summer, and with other parties likely to start circling, they must act fast and trigger the clause in his loan agreement.