Sheffield United's Sander Berge is attracting interest from Italy on a potential loan-to-buy, according to Alan Nixon.

Berge's future at Bramall Lane looks uncertain following the Blades' relegation from the Premier League, and a departure is expected to materialise this summer.

The 23-year-old has made 32 appearances for the Blades since his club-record £22m move from Genk in January 2020, and he has a £35m release clause in his contract.

That price is currently proving to be too much for Arsenal, who have been linked with the Norway international this summer.

There has also been interest from Napoli, who are also struggling to afford Berge's buy-out clause - but according to Nixon, there is still interest from Italy.

Nixon claims that those clubs from Italy looking to sign Berge are targeting the midfielder on loan with a view to buy, suggesting that the Blades wouldn't receive an immediate injection of cash this summer.

The Verdict

I can't see how this works for Sheffield United.

£35million is undoubtedly a lot of money for someone to spend on one player this summer, especially one who hasn't really lived up to expectations since moving over to England.

The Blades have a number of saleable assets in their squad following relegation from the top-flight, and if they managed to include an obligation to buy rather than option to buy, then that would cover their backs.

But I get the feeling that they want £35million and nothing else for Berge if he were to leave this summer, perhaps proving to be a stumbling block.