Sheffield United closing in on deal for former £20m centre-back

Sheffield United are increasingly confident of securing one of the two centre-backs they want to add to their squad, with the Blades making an approach for experienced former Premier League defender Adam Webster.

The 31-year-old is currently without a club after leaving Brighton & Hove Albion at the end of the season.

Webster joined Brighton from Bristol City in a deal worth around £20 million and went on to make more than 150 appearances for the Seagulls. However, his 2025/26 campaign was ruined by a serious ACL injury, and he subsequently left the club when his contract expired in June.

The defender has continued working on his rehabilitation as he looks to return to full fitness. Sheffield United are now hoping to complete an agreement that would make Webster their fourth signing of the summer.

The Blades had previously been interested in bringing Harry Souttar to the club, but their recruitment strategy changed after the club opted to concentrate more heavily on free agents and loan opportunities.

Webster has already visited Sheffield United’s training base at Shirecliffe during the past week, with negotiations reportedly reaching the final stages. The club are now working to complete the remaining details of the proposed deal.

The move would underline Sheffield United’s approach to the current transfer market. While several Championship rivals are committing significant sums in pursuit of promotion through the expanded eight-team play-off system, the Blades are looking for experienced players available through more financially cautious routes.

Webster’s departure from Brighton was accompanied by a glowing farewell from manager Fabian Hurzeler, who praised the defender’s leadership and character.

Hurzeler acknowledged the important role Webster played during a difficult period for Brighton and praised his ability to set an example both on and off the pitch.

The manager also expressed his disappointment over the serious injury Webster suffered during pre-season but backed him to return stronger.

Hurzeler wished the defender well for the next stage of his career, stressing that Webster’s positive personality and professionalism had made him an important member of the Brighton squad.

If Sheffield United can finalise the move, Webster’s experience at the highest level could prove valuable as the club look to strengthen their defence and build a squad capable of challenging for promotion.