Transfer Centre

Sheffield United attacker set for move to Turkey?

By Carter White | 29 April 2024

Antalyaspor are reportedly considering a summer swoop for Sheffield United striker Oli McBurnie, who is set to become a free agent at the end of the season.

Sheffield United attacker Oli McBurnie has reportedly attracted interest from Turkish Super Lig outfit Antalyaspor ahead of the summer window.

Since joining from Championship outfit Swansea City in 2019, the 27-year-old has made 159 appearances for the Blades across all competitions, scoring 29 goals.

McBurnie has struggled with a multitude of injury issues this term but has still managed to bag six goals and three assists from 21 Premier League appearances.

The striker has been a primary source of attacking threat for the struggling Blades alongside January arrival Ben Brereton Diaz and Cameron Archer.

Despite this, United have endured a difficult campaign under a mixture of Paul Heckingbottom and Chris Wilder, meaning that they will make an immediate return to the Championship at the end of the term.

Sheffield United's Oli McBurnie celebrates scoring their second goal with James McAtee and Anel Ahmedhodzic on January 21, 2024 © Reuters

Sheffield United's McBurnie wanted by Antalyaspor?

According to journalist Alan Nixon, McBurnie is attracting interest from around Europe ahead of the summer transfer window, including from Turkey.

The report claims that Super Lig outfit Antalyaspor are considering a move for the 16-time Scotland international, who is coming towards a critical junction in his Sheffield United career.

McBurnie's contract at Bramall Lane is set to expire at the conclusion of the season, leaving the cards in the hands of the former Bradford City man.

The forward is currently able to leave the Blades on a free transfer in the summer, potentially moving outside of the UK for the first time in his professional career.

Wilder's side could still offer McBurnie a contract extension, however United need to be mindful of their budget as they prepare to operate as a Championship club.

Sheffield United's Oli McBurnie celebrates scoring their first goal on October 21, 2023 © Reuters

Antalyaspor's striking situation

It is understood that Antalyaspor's potential pursuit of McBurnie is highly dependent on whether they can retain the services of their leading marksman this season.

On loan from French outfit Lens, Adam Buska has been a key player at the focal point of the Scorpions' attack, netting 14 goals in 30 Super Lig appearances.

Sergen Yalcin's men are hopeful of striking a deal with Lens to sign the Poland international permanently, however there is set to be other interested parties.

McBurnie, therefore, would provide a suitable backup option for Buska, with the Blades striker proving his worth in the Premier League this season.