Sam Hutchinson is out of contract at the end of June and looks likely to be released. The 30-year-old was exiled from the first-team by Garry Monk in the New Year and hasn’t made an appearance for Sheffield Wednesday since mid-January.
A replacement has been identified in James Garner, however, so the Owls potentially have a player who could bring high levels of industry and combativeness to midfield next season. Manchester United are keen to loan out the 19-year-old, so Wednesday should be confident of landing his signature.
Not only is Hutchinson’s potential exit down to him falling out of favour under Monk, he’s also one of the highest-earners at the club – £1.04m-a-year/£20k-a-week. He’ll turn 31 in August too, so with Wednesday looking to revamp their ageing squad and lower the wage bill, Hutchinson is an obvious target.
As for his potential successor, Garner is described by United as a player who can operate in defence and midfield, like Hutchinson, and a hard-working leader with a good range of passing. The 19-year-old could provide a blend of defensive stability and ball retention if signed next season, but he’s still a young player who would need time to settle.
Wednesday have done pieces of business with United in the last few years, so time will tell if they win the race.
