Gus Hamer encountered Sheffield United supporters at an exclusive pre-season gathering on Friday evening when questioned directly about a potential departure from Bramall Lane for a rumoured comeback at Coventry City.

The 29-year-old midfielder, expected to feature in the Blades’ concluding warm-up match against Bochum on Saturday, August 1, attended a city-centre venue alongside his colleagues and manager Chris Wilder to interact with approximately 400 fans. During the organised occasion, Wilder delivered what was described as an emotional speech to supporters, expressing his and the squad’s determination to guide the club back to the top flight following last term’s disappointing 13th-place Championship campaign.

Hamer, who is being widely speculated to be Coventry’s primary transfer target, was surrounded by well-wishers seeking photographs.

Sheffield Star football journalist Danny Hall, present at the gathering, reported that spectators claimed the player had assured them he would not be moving anywhere.

Coventry supporters have been highlighting on social platforms that the midfielder provided them with identical assurances during the summer before his move to South Yorkshire.

Coventry transferred Hamer to United during the 2023 close season, having been defeated by Luton in the play-off final at Wembley, while the Blades had clinched automatic promotion.

Speaking about Hamer’s most recent remarks, Hall observed that such a response was entirely predictable, adding that the player was never likely to inform United supporters he was departing, though it served as another timely indication of the affection felt for him by the club’s followers. He noted that whether this proves sufficient to retain his services remains to be seen, with the outcome dependent on Coventry’s willingness to meet Sheffield United’s valuation.

United are understood to rate the former CBS Arena favourite at between £15 million and £20 million. Coventry received £15 million when they sold him.

Hall added that Hamer is currently scheduled to feature in Saturday’s encounter with Bochum before returning to England, with his situation unresolved. Sources indicate the player would be receptive to a Coventry return, though United maintain their position that any transfer must occur on their terms and at a price acceptable to them.