Sheffield United are weighing up a move to re-sign Southampton forward Ben Brereton Díaz before the transfer deadline, according to David Mason. The 26-year-old, who had his second loan spell at Bramall Lane last season, could be set for a third stint in South Yorkshire, with a loan deal - potentially including an option to buy - on the table.
The Chile international has seriously struggled for success at Southampton since his £7 million move from Villarreal last summer. After going 17 Premier League games without a win, he was among several first-team players moved down to the Saints’ under-21 set-up. Brereton Díaz failed to find the net in 13 senior outings before being loaned out to Sheffield United in January.
During that spell, he rediscovered some form, scoring four goals in 17 league appearances as Chris Wilder’s side came agonisingly close to promotion, only to fall short in the Championship play-off final against Sunderland.
🚨 Sheffield United are looking into re-signing #SaintsFC’s forward Ben Brereton Diaz (26).
— AllSaints (@AllSaintsnews98) August 28, 2025
The out-of-favour attacker scored 7 G/A’s on loan at Sheffield United last year.
The move is likely to be a loan, probably with an option to buy.
[📖 Dave Mason] pic.twitter.com/i9ppCDuJeV
Sheffield United are not alone in their pursuit. Championship promotion hopefuls West Bromwich Albion and Middlesbrough are also monitoring the situation closely. Both clubs see the Stoke-born striker as a proven operator at this level, with his 22-goal campaign for Blackburn Rovers in 2021/22 still fresh in the memory.
Southampton, meanwhile, are open to offers despite Brereton Díaz being under contract until 2028. Sources suggest the club would consider a permanent sale if a suitable bid arrives, even from direct promotion rivals, as they look to reshape their forward line before the deadline.
Ben Brereton Diaz highlights 24/25
— Saints Statistics (@TheStatsSaint) July 5, 2025
Going to tear up the championship 🔥 pic.twitter.com/HETlUdMMWa
For Sheffield United, a reunion could offer both familiarity and firepower. Wilder has been keen to bolster his forward options after a dreadful start to the season, with the team rock bottom of the league and only scoring twice in four games so far.
Having already proven he can perform in red and white, Brereton Díaz represents a relatively low-risk option with potential high reward.
As the deadline looms, the Blades must now decide whether to push through a deal and fend off competition. Having performed well on loan at Bramall Lane twice before, a third spell may be just as appealing to Brereton Díaz as it is to the club.
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