Sheffield United: Adkins makes Adams announcement

Che Adams in action for Sheffield United earlier this season

Adkins, who also rubbished claims Che Adams has been the subject of bids from Manchester City and AFC Bournemouth, issued the pledge during a thinly-veiled critique of Bramall Lane’s previous recruitment strategies.

With United acknowledging they are looking to trim the size of his squad before next month’s deadline, Adkins said: “I want to bring a couple in, I’ve already said that. We have made offers, six figure offers, that have been turned down.

Nigel Adkins has made offers for two players this month
Â©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved — Nigel Adkins has made offers for two players this month Â©2016 Sport Image all rights reserved

“We don’t need numbers, we need quality footballers and they come at a premium. We’ve highlighted players that can improve the group. At this moment in time, we haven’t been able to get them but who knows, that may well change over the course of the next 11 days. As it stands, our bids have been turned down and that’s the prerogative of any football club. We’ll keep working. It’s got to be right because it’s going to cost money.”

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Adkins, who has placed Fulham defender Dan Burn at the top of his wanted list, added: “There is a genuine support across the club to try and get them. There’s been a lot of money invested over the years and over time. Within Financial Fair Play, we have to get it right. But we also need to be kicking on and trying to push the boundaries. That’s certainly what I want to do.”

Adkins, speaking ahead of tomorrow’s League One fixture against Swindon Town, confirmed United have received “no telephone calls” regarding Adams since English football reopened for business earlier this month.

“Remember, and it’s important not to lose sight of this,” Adkins said. “We have already got very talented players. But there’s a strong endeavour to bring more in. You need to be bold and strong enough to say it has to be the right players and maybe that’s not always happened in the past which is why were are in a position whereby we’re looking to reduce the size of the squad now.”