Sheffield United Re-spark Interest in Cardiff Forward

Sheffield United Re-spark Interest in Cardiff Forward

After the Blades showed strong interest in Ashford back in the January transfer window, they now are looking to pursue a deal for the young forward once more, according to Darren Witcoop. After an impressive start to the season for Cardiff in league one, Ashford is seen as another strong addition to Rubén Sellés' squad.

A poor start to the campaign for Sellés has seen the club become frantic over recent days in the market as they look to make further reinforcements before the window closes. They have already signed Danny Ings, Ben Godfrey and Nils Zätterström in the space of a week, which tells you everything you need to know about the manager's thoughts on his current players.

It will be no easy move to pull off however, as Cardiff want to keep their star man who burst onto the scene in the championship in 2023/24. More creativity is required at Bramall Lane and Ashford is seen as the perfect fit to improve the squad depth at the club for the new season.

Ashford's Shown His Quality

Ashford has made 38 league appearances for Cardiff as an attacking midfielder who hasn't been shy of getting in the spotlight on many occasion. His stoppage time winner against Southampton two seasons ago announced him to the Cardiff faithful, and it being his first for the club made it even more special.

Still very much a raw talent, Ashford scored his first FA Cup goal last season for Cardiff, and this move could be the most natural next step in his career. Sheffield United have been busy this summer window as they look to bolster their attacking options further. After just getting the Ings deal over the line, they now look to mix experience with an emerging prospect.

Ashford is a youthful attacking option, who isn't afraid to try and beat a man and act as the creative man in the middle of the park. He can develop learning from the senior players ahead of him to progress as a player if given the chance to play at a higher level.

⭐️ STARBOY FROM 30-YARDS!!! (2-1)#CityAsOne | @CianAshford pic.twitter.com/4dUlHJB6VU

— Cardiff City FC (@CardiffCityFC) April 20, 2024

Cardiff in No Hurry to Sell

When Sheffield United approached in January, Cardiff had a strong stance on their situation with their thoughts on letting the player leave the club. Now with just a few days in the summer window remaining, the Bluebirds will be desperate to keep their homegrown prodigy on their books.

Ashford's current contract runs until the summer of 2027, and he is still an important part of the squad as Cardiff look to bounce back with a promotion this season. After signing his first professional contract with the club at just 16 years old, he went onto make his debut at 19.

71 - It's a Championship debut for @CianAshford, replacing tonight's goalscorer, Bowler. (0-1)#CityAsOne pic.twitter.com/NWubmr4JRQ

— Cardiff City FC (@CardiffCityFC) April 10, 2024

Progression over Pride for Ashford

Ashford might have to put aside his affection for Cardiff as he has gone on record to speak of his love for the city and being a lifelong fan. It's a chance to return to the championship and carry some expectation that will come with the move.

He is loved by the fans and he has a lot of admiration for them as well, so it would be a difficult move for all parties, but one that could improve Sheffield United's hopes of getting back to the Premier League where they feel they belong after a few years away.