Arsenal, Aston Villa, Napoli, Lazio, and Atalanta are all prepared to use Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge's recent fitness problems to drive down the Blades' £35 million valuation, according to the Sheffield Star. 

Berge joined United from Genk in January 2020 and has been one of their most impressive player since but his future is up in the air after the club's relegation from the Premier League.

There is no shortage of interest in the Norweigian, with Arsenal, Aston Villa, Napoli, Lazio, and Atalanta all linked, and it is understood that the Yorkshire club are open to listening to offers for the 23-year-old privately.

Berge missed long periods of last season due to injury and new boss Slavisa Jokanovic has indicated that was absent from their recent pre-season friendly due to a lack of fitness.

According to the Sheffield Star, the clubs in pursuit of the midfielder are prepared to use his recent fitness issues to drive down the Blades' asking price – which is currently £35 million.

Whether United will change their valuation remains to be seen but they're in a strong negotiating position as the Norway international's contract at Bramall Lane runs until 2024.

The Verdict

It seems the Baldes' resolve could be tested in the coming weeks, with the sides pursuing Berge ready to use his fitness issues to drive his valuation down.

The positive thing for United is that they remain in a strong negotiating position due to the midfielder's long contract at Bramall Lane but if he wants to leave, they may be best cashing in even if it means accepting less than they originally wanted.

It certainly looks as though this situation is going to drag on toward the end of the window.