“Sheffield United have officially announced the acquisition of Luke Thomas, the left-back from Leicester City, on a season-long loan deal.
The young English talent, who represents the U21 national team, had attracted interest from Leeds United earlier this week. However, Leicester City refused to permit the 22-year-old to join a Championship rival.
Amidst various suitors, Thomas is enthusiastic about the opportunity to return to the Premier League. He is set to join Paul Heckingbottom’s lineup right away, as Ben Osborn is sidelined due to an injury, when Sheffield United faces Everton.
Wearing the No. 14 jersey at Bramall Lane, Thomas becomes the ninth addition to the Blades’ squad this summer. He expressed his thoughts, saying, ‘The decision to join United a few days ago was an effortless one. Returning to Premier League action aligns perfectly with my aspirations. I’m thrilled to be here and eager to kick off.’
Regarding other potential options, he revealed, ‘Though there were alternatives, the moment United approached, the decision was a clear one – almost automatic. I’m genuinely excited to start this journey. It’s a significant juncture for me. Gaining playtime and cementing my place in the team is paramount.’
A product of Leicester’s academy, Thomas earned an FA Cup victory with the team in 2021 and triumphed in the Under 21 European Championship in July.
Paul Heckingbottom, the coach, shared his perspective, stating, ‘Luke boasts an impressive background, not only as a young talent but also with substantial experience at the Premier League level. What impressed me further was his eagerness to join and his readiness to initiate.’
In the aftermath of Sunday’s loss to Manchester City, Ben Osborn sustained a groin injury and is scheduled to consult a specialist in London on Thursday. Stuart McCall, assistant coach of Sheffield United, acknowledged the situation after the Carabao Cup’s shootout loss to Lincoln City on Wednesday evening. He said, ‘The injury doesn’t seem favorable. He’s due to meet a specialist tomorrow (Thursday) in London. Unfortunately, it seems like it won’t be a brief recovery… the damage to the groin seems significant; we’re uncertain whether it’s a rupture, but he’s under specialized examination.'”