Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has provided an update on the future of midfielder Gustavo Hamer, who is currently a target for former club Coventry City. Hamer’s contract at Bramall Lane is set to expire in the coming months, with both clubs interested in his services.
Wilder confirmed that Sheffield United have received a bid from another party for Hamer and are now discussing it with the board. 'There's been a bid in for Gus and that is being discussed by the owners,' Wilder stated. The club is reluctant to allow Hamer to leave on free transfer terms, as they paid a significant fee to sign him three years ago.
'Our policy as a football club is that we don't like players leaving on free transfers, especially when we've paid a decent fee,' Wilder explained. 'We're trying to get the right fee that we feel is equivalent to the player's standing and relevant to what we feel that he's worth.'
Wilder also highlighted Hamer’s ambitions as a factor in his decision-making process. 'Gus is ambitious, and there's an opportunity of potentially a big increase on his salary, a lengthened contract, and going to a club where he's really highly thought-of,' the manager said.
The Sheffield United boss made it clear that he does not want to lose Hamer but accepts that the club may have little choice if the midfielder decides against renewing his contract. 'I don't want to lose him, of course I don’t, because he’s a top player,' Wilder stated. 'If he doesn't want to engage in contract talks … there's a pretty simple answer to that.'
Wilder also drew comparisons with Andre Brooks, who recently left the club for a more lucrative opportunity elsewhere. The Sheffield United boss made it clear that if Hamer stays beyond the transfer window, he will continue to expect the midfielder to give everything for the club.
'When the window shuts, if he's here, he'll play and he'll have to give his everything to the shirt, which is everything that I demand,' Wilder said.
