Sheffield Wednesday will face competition in the race to sign Frederico Venancio, with the defender attracting interest from across the Sky Bet Championship.  

The 25-year-old centre-back has just completed a season-long loan at Hillsborough, where he made 25 appearances across all competitions and scored one goal.

According to the Sheffield Star, any permanent transfer involving Venancio this summer will cost £800k, with the defender keen on a return to Hillsborough.

The Owls are also keen on a deal to bring Venancio back next season, but have missed their opportunity to make the deal permanent, with that option expiring at the end of March.

Since then, Venancio, who has returned to Vitoria de Setubal, has attracted interest from a number of other unnamed Championship clubs, who are keen on offering him a route back to English football’s second-tier.

The Star understand that it is Venancio’s preference to return to Hillsborough and link back up with Jos Luhukay’s squad.

Venancio scored his only goal for the Owls in his final appearance for the club, helping Luhukay’s side to a 5-1 victory over Norwich City on the final day of the season.

The Verdict

Venancio’s performances, particularly towards the end of the season, were impressive, with the defender finally getting to grips with the Championship.

The 25-year-old had a slow start to life in England, but stepped up well when Wednesday’s injuries were beginning to pile up against them.

The Owls are interested in re-signing Venancio, and interest from elsewhere shouldn’t be a surprise, given the impact the defender has had in recent months.

At £800k, there will be plenty of serious interest.

Sheffield Wednesday fans… Let us know your thoughts!