Sheffield football clubs gear up for new season with United's loan target and Wednesday's friendly

Sheffield United are seeking to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the upcoming Championship campaign by pursuing a loan move for 18‑year‑old Manchester City defender Stephen Mfuni. The club faces competition from Derby County and Swansea City and hopes the loan will provide regular first‑team minutes after the departures of Ben Mee and the return of Tyler Bindon to Nottingham Forest.

Sheffield Wednesday will play a pre‑season friendly against Preston North End on Saturday as part of their League One preparations. The Owls have already faced West Bromwich Albion (3‑0 loss) and Hallam (draw) and are operating under new US‑consortium ownership following their exit from administration. Preston enter the match after a 4‑1 win over Bamber Bridge in their own pre‑season schedule.