Coventry City’s pursuit of Sheffield United midfielder Gustavo Hamer has hit a major stumbling block after club-to-club negotiations.
Hamer has been heavily linked with a return to the CBS Arena in recent weeks, with it widely reported that the Dutch-Brazilian is open to a switch back to the Premier League with his former club.
After much speculation, both clubs engaged in talks over brokering a deal this week, but a deal is no closer, with Coventry and Sheffield United struggling to reach an agreement on the player’s valuation.
Sheffield United believe the player is worth a significant fee and are unwilling to sell cheaply, while Coventry are not prepared to meet the Blades’ full asking price.
As a result, as things stand, a deal is far from being agreed, meaning the Sky Blues may be forced to turn to alternative targets ahead of the September 1 deadline if nothing changes.
Hamer has one year remaining on his current contract and has made clear he is open to a move that would allow him to play Premier League football again, with Frank Lampard viewing the player as a key addition to strengthen his midfield options.
Meanwhile, other midfield targets have been the subject of exploratory talks, though the primary focus remains on bringing Hamer back to Coventry. Both sets of negotiations are thought to be independent.
Reports indicate that Coventry would like to add further quality in the middle of the park before the transfer window closes, having already completed the permanent signing of Frank Onyeka earlier this summer.
The Sky Blues’ current midfield options include the likes of Victor Torp and other established members of the squad as Lampard looks to build a competitive Premier League side.
Coventry are also assessing other areas of the pitch as they prepare for life back in the top flight.
The Sky Blues get their Premier League campaign underway later this month.
Before then, Lampard continues to work with the squad as he looks to implement his ideas ahead of the new season.
Frank Lampard admits need for midfield reinforcement
Speaking recently, Lampard made clear that Coventry need to strengthen key areas of the squad.
When asked about recruitment, the former England midfielder indicated that the club must remain open to opportunities in the market to improve the group, particularly in positions where additional quality and experience would help them compete at Premier League level.
The gap in valuation between Coventry and Sheffield United remains the major obstacle. Until that is resolved, the much-discussed return of Gustavo Hamer looks increasingly difficult.
