Australian International Harry Souttar joins Sheffield United
Sheffield United sign Harry Souttar on season-long loan Credit: Clare McCahill (ETPhotos)
Sheffield United have added to their defensive line-up with the acquisition of Leicester City's Harry Souttar.
The Australian international, with 30 senior caps, joins the Blades on a season-long loan for the upcoming 2024-25 EFL season.
Manager Chris Wilder expressed his enthusiasm about the new signing, saying, "Getting someone of Harry's calibre and experience is a huge plus, and he'll add some steel to our defensive unit. His height and power are exactly what we've been looking for since we lost a couple of experienced heads."
Wilder further highlighted Souttar's credentials, noting, "Harry's still only 25 but he's been around a long time. He can handle the highest of levels as shown with his appearances for Australia, and again he's someone who knows this division and what is needed to be successful in it."
Souttar, originally from Scotland, began his football journey with Brechin City before moving to Celtic briefly and then joining Dundee United's academy in 2013. He debuted in the Scottish Premiership in 2016 and soon after, scored his first senior goal.
In September 2016, Souttar transitioned to English football with Stoke City, where he spent three years, including successful loan periods at Ross County and Fleetwood Town.
The 2020-21 season saw Souttar making 43 appearances for Stoke City, and though injuries affected his following season, he returned strong to play in the 2022 World Cup for Australia.
His standout performances in Qatar attracted Premier League interest, leading to his move to Leicester City in January 2023, where he made 16 appearances.
Reflecting on his move to Sheffield United, Souttar shared, "I knew that it might be on for a couple of weeks, but over the weekend I was waiting on the phone call telling me to come up to Sheffield. I can't wait to get started. The club speaks for itself. I don't need to tell anyone how big the club is."
Souttar added, "As soon as I found out I was available and the club was looking at me, it was a no-brainer to come here. I spoke to the gaffer a few times, but he didn't have to sell the club to me at all. I've known some of the lads here and know about the club's ethos and vision."
"I feel this will be a great partnership at this stage of my career and I am raring to go. I can't wait to get working under him and his staff and seeing the squad they have built this pre-season; it is looking really exciting."
