Chelsea made deadline day move for Sheffield United star

Chelsea reportedly expressed an interest in signing Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge before the transfer window closed on Thursday night.

Berge was relegated from the Championship with Sheffield two years ago, but he has remained loyal to the club managed by Paul Heckingbottom.

The Norwegian netted six goals and four assists in 33 outings last campaign, and has bagged two goals and two assists so far this term.

According to The Star, Chelsea were eager to land the box-to-box midfielder on deadline day, but Sheffield pointed to his £35m release clause.

As a result, a deal did not materialise before the transfer deadline, and the Blues eventually signed Denis Zakaria from Juventus on loan.

Berge could still leave the Blades in the future if they fail to get promoted. He has under two years left on his deal, and may assess his options.

Aside from the Blues, Club Brugge were also keen on pursuing the services of the 24-year-old, who was previously at Belgian rivals Genk.