Sheffield United signs Chilean striker Ben Brereton Díaz on loan from Villarreal

Sheffield United has bolstered their attack in the January transfer window, securing the loan services of Chilean international striker Ben Brereton Díaz from Villarreal CF.

The club anticipates his debut in the FA Cup third round against Gillingham, subject to international clearance.

Chris Wilder, back for his second stint as Blades boss, expressed his satisfaction with the acquisition.

"Ben was a coveted player so we're delighted to have brought him to the club," he said.

Wilder praised Díaz's versatility and goal-scoring prowess from his time at Blackburn.

"He's quick, powerful and his recent goal record at Blackburn speaks for itself,"

Wilder emphasized Díaz's eagerness to join Sheffield United.

"For me, the fact that he really wanted to come here and play in the Premier League was a big factor. He's done his homework and liked what he'd heard," Wilder added.

Brereton Díaz, who rose through the ranks at Manchester United and Stoke City's youth setups, made a significant impact at Nottingham Forest, making his senior debut in January 2017.

His performances earned him a move to Blackburn Rovers in January 2019, where he excelled, scoring 22 goals in one season and 16 the next, including goals against Sheffield United.

After a successful stint at Blackburn, Díaz secured a four-year deal with Villarreal in La Liga.

Internationally, he has represented England at youth levels and became a full international with Chile, debuting in 2021 and participating in the Copa América the same year.

In his first remarks as a Blade, Brereton Díaz shared his excitement.

"As soon as I knew there was interest, I spoke to a few people, and we got it done quickly," he said.

With limited playing time in Spain, he expressed eagerness to start playing in England.

"Playing in the Premier League is something you dream of as a young boy," he added.