Sheffield United completed the signing of Sander Berge from Genk on January 30th and Chris Wilder has started him in the Blades’ last two fixtures against Crystal Palace and AFC Bournemouth.
After the 2-1 win over Eddie Howe’s side, the Norway international spoke to his country’s media and explained how he has a different role with the Premier League side.
Sheffield United wanted to take the 21-year-old last summer. However, the midfielder snubbed an opportunity to join them, only to make a move to Bramall Lane in January.
TV2 claims agents Morten Wivestad and Mike Kjølø worked hard to find the right club for their client. The former spoke to TV2 and explained how a transfer to the English club took shape in the winter window.
“Sheffield United have been very close all the way, and we have had a good dialogue with them. We were very clear that Sander was going to complete the Champions League with Genk before carrying on further talks,” Wivestad said.
“We know how closely they have followed him for a long time, not only in the autumn, but also in the past. Sander feels wanted by the whole club, and that makes the choice much safer.”
When Berge and his representatives landed in England to complete the transfer, Wilder received the player and gave him a tour of the club’s facilities.
TV2 asked Wivestad how common it is for a manager to do this, he said: “It’s not common, but it symbolises the club and what values they have there.”
“Sander really appreciated it from the dialogue that was created. You get a clear idea that you are really wanted by everyone. The reception he has received has been absolutely overwhelming.”
Wivestad also explained there were several other clubs interested in Berge.
“There were some clubs that were very specific in the January window, who wanted Sander there and then. And then there were several clubs that made it clear that they wanted Sander, but from the summer on,” Berge’s agent explained.
“In some, there was the need there before the season, while others wanted to wait for financial reasons.”
