Sheffield United, Stoke City and Derby County receive boost as Southampton accept Ben Brereton Diaz offers

Sheffield United handed boost as Southampton reportedly accept loan offer for Ben Brereton Diaz

Sheffield United have reportedly been given the green light to bring Ben Brereton Diaz back to Bramall Lane, with Southampton said to have accepted a loan proposal for the experienced forward.

The 27-year-old Chile international already has a strong connection with the Blades, having enjoyed two previous spells with the South Yorkshire club.

Brereton Diaz initially joined Sheffield United on loan in January 2024 while contracted to Villarreal before returning to Bramall Lane the following year, this time from Southampton. Across his two spells, the versatile attacker made 34 appearances and found the net 10 times.

Southampton accept multiple loan approaches

According to Sky Sports, Sheffield United have made a loan proposal for Brereton Diaz that Southampton have accepted.

However, the Blades are not the only Championship club to receive encouragement. Southampton are also reportedly willing to sanction loan moves to Derby County and Stoke City, leaving the striker with a decision to make over his next destination.

Derby would represent another familiar environment for Brereton Diaz after he spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Pride Park. He also has previous links with Stoke, having been part of the club’s academy during his teenage years.

With competition for places expected to be fierce at Southampton this season, Brereton Diaz is now understood to be considering his options.

Sheffield United need more attacking threat

Sheffield United’s early-season performances have highlighted the need for greater attacking quality. Chris Wilder’s side have started their campaign with goalless draws against Birmingham City and Swansea City, underlining their struggles in front of goal.

Brereton Diaz could provide an experienced option at Championship level, while his previous time working under Wilder means he already understands the manager’s approach and expectations.

The striker was particularly positive about his relationship with Sheffield United when he returned to the club in January 2025. He praised the supporters and described the club as a family environment, while also expressing his desire to help the team achieve promotion.

A return to Bramall Lane could therefore appeal to Brereton Diaz, but with Derby and Stoke also having loan offers accepted, the Chilean now faces a choice over where to continue his career.