Wolves and Sheffield United transfer falls through at final hurdle

Sheffield United’s proposed loan acquisition of Wolverhampton Wanderers right-back Ki-Jana Hoever has collapsed, Birmingham World understands.

The 22-year-old impressed during a second loan spell at Stoke City last campaign, racking up four goals and five assists in 40 Championship appearances. Hoever’s fine form appeared to earn him a move to Bramall Lane but the plug has been pulled late on in the process.

Our sister publication, The Star, reports Sheffield United have turned to other options as an injury concern propped up for Hoever and put the deal in jeopardy. Talks are now instead advanced over the alternative signing of Chelsea right-back Alfie Gilchrist, on loan until the end of the 2024/25 campaign.

Hoever, signed by Wolves from Liverpool for £8.3 million in 2020, is certainly an exciting prospect. The 22-year-old has made just 25 senior appearances for the Old Gold but last season was a sign of things to come, and he can surely only get better.

It awaits to be seen how serious Hoever’s injury is but iit’s nothing substantial, then a loan move to a different club should be considered to further his progression. After all, he’s unlikely to get sufficient game time at Wolves during the coming season.