Sheffield Wednesday have already launched a third bid to sign Duncan McGuire.
Sheffield Wednesday have already added Ike Ugbo to their ranks, but have made it clear that they are still eager to further bolster their attack before Thursday’s deadline.
Duncan McGuire appears to be their main priority in the final days of the transfer window, with the Orlando City striker already refusing a new contract and demanding a move away from the MLS this month.
The striker netted 13 goals and provided three assists in the MLS last season, while he also made his international debut in the United States’ defeat to Slovenia earlier this month.
Sheffield Wednesday saw a bid turned down for McGuire over the weekend, though that was before the 22-year-old requested a move away from Florida.
The Owls have been in discussions with Orlando since and have now made a seven-figure offer for his signature, with the MLS outfit now considering whether to accept the bid or not.
Danny Rohl‘s side still face competition for McGuire’s signature though, with the likes of FC Midtjylland and Anderlecht previously expressing interest in him.
Blackburn Rovers are also keen to sign the forward, having already seen a loan bid turned down before Christmas. However, it is now believed they have made a fresh permanent offer to sign McGuire – matching that of Sheffield Wednesday.
The Owls will be desperate to win over McGuire, though Blackburn’s location may benefit them, while they are also a lot more likely to still be in the Championship next season and potentially push for promotion again.
What happens when Duncan McGuire can’t get a work permit?
McGuire won’t qualify for a work permit to play in England via Governing Body Endorsement, however the club have an Elite Significant Contribution slot available.
This means that if a player doesn’t have the points required for an automatic endorsement, Sheffield Wednesday must show that the player is an ‘elite player who will make a significant contribution to the sport’.
The FA expect at least one of the following criteria to be checked:
- Played in at least one competitive youth or senior international for a nation ranked in the FIFA Top 50
- Played in at least five competitive youth or senior internationals for a nation ranked outside of the FIFA Top 50
- Played in at least one Continental Youth or Senior Competition match; or
- Played in at least five Domestic Youth or Senior Competition matches.