Sheffield United’s Nils Zätterström wants to secure a permanent move to Genoa in the summer.
The Sweden international came up through the ranks of Malmö FF’s youth system and made his way into their first team in 2024. His performances would have convinced the Blades to bring him to Championship for €3.3m last August.
Rubén Sellés was in charge when he arrived at Bramall Lane and Chris Wilder replaced him in September.
The current Sheffield United manager didn’t consider the centre-back and he then failed to make an appearance for the English club. The lack of opportunities frustrated him, forcing a move away from the Blades in the winter market.
In January, Wilder’s side allowed him to join Genoa on a loan deal with an option to buy and at that time, Sport Witness relayed news that the purchase clause is €5.5m.
The loan move hasn’t really worked out so far for the 20-year-old. He made his debut for Genoa by coming off the bench against Bologna in January and hasn’t featured since then.
Sheffield United difficulties and future plans
Fotbollskanalen have spoken to Nils Zätterström to discuss his life in Italy, why he struggled at Sheffield United and other topics.
The defender blames managerial changes for not getting opportunities at Bramall Lane.
“No, the coach who brought me there got fired early on. And the new coach had a different playing style and different players he believed in. So, I was often sitting in the stands there,” he said.
The Sheffield United player is open to joining the Italian club permanently via the buying option.
“Yes, absolutely. As it stands now, I’m definitely open to staying in Genoa. We’ll see; there are eight matches left, and then the summer transfer window opens. But I’m open to it,” Zätterström explained.
The Swede is enjoying life in Italy, which encourages him to continue with Genoa.
“I really enjoy it there. If you compare it to English football, there is much more rhythm in the game in Italy. Sometimes you let the opponent have the ball, you just defend areas that are dangerous and when you have the ball yourself, the opponents do the same thing,” he added.
Summer exit beneficial for Sheffield United
Nils Zätterström doesn’t seem to have a future under Chris Wilder at the Championship side. Therefore, a permanent exit in the summer would benefit both parties.
The player wants to join Genoa, but whether they will exercise the purchase clause isn’t clear.
