Chris Wilder’s comments suggest Nottingham Forest ‘target’ Luke Freeman is staying at Sheffield United

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Comments from Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder look to have dealt a major blow to Nottingham Forest’s chances of signing Luke Freeman.

The Reds could be set for a busy end to this month’s transfer window after enjoying a great season so far under the management of Sabri Lamouchi.

The Reds sit third in the Championship, just two points off the automatic promotion places as we head into the business end of the season.

Lamouchi has certainly got the best out of his squad. That being said, his side has often been criticised by those outside of the club for not creating enough chances and not being easy on the eye.

The Reds have been linked with a move for Sheffield United midfielder Luke Freeman who has not been featuring regularly for Wilder at Bramall Lane.

The Sun on Sunday (26/10, Page 61) reported last week that the Reds were keen on bringing the 27-year-old to the City Ground to help take the pressure off the likes of Joe Lolley to create.

‘End of the story’

But now Wilder has told the Sheffield Star that he doesn’t expect Freeman – or Billy Sharp – to leave the Blades before the transfer window slams shut.

“Some players have not kept pace with the club over the last three years but Billy and Luke have,” he told the Sheffield Star.

“They’re part of the group and if I was in the Championship, I’d make an enquiry for them; one hundred per cent.

“But they’re part of the group going forward and that’s the end of the story as far as I’m concerned.”

With the Blades flying high in the Premier League, Wilder is perhaps right to be cautious about tinkering with his squad too much.

The Blades are still being linked with other players though, which could pave the way for Freeman to still move to the City Ground.

It would be a real statement from the Reds if they were able to secure the signature of Freeman. He’s arguably proven himself as one of the best players in the Championship over the past few years and would add real quality in the final third.