Sheffield United have turned down a transfer offer from Serie A side Sassuolo for right-back Femi Seriki, with the English club determined to hold on to one of their most exciting defensive assets.

According to Sky Sports News, the rejected bid was structured as a loan fee of €1 million with a €5 million obligation to buy — a package the Blades deemed insufficient for a player who made a significant impact last season.

Seriki set to lead the right flank

With no agreement reached, the 24-year-old is expected to begin the new campaign as Sheffield United's first-choice right-back. His attacking instincts and energy down the right flank won over the club's supporters during his breakthrough season.

Seriki had built a productive partnership with fellow academy graduate Andre Brooks — a combination that energised Sheffield United's right side — though Brooks has since moved on to Norwich City.

A long road at Bramall Lane

Seriki joined Sheffield United from Bury in 2019 and has accumulated 69 appearances for the club across all competitions. Before establishing himself in South Yorkshire, he gained experience on loan at Beerschot, Boston United, Rochdale, and Rotherham.

Sassuolo may return with a higher offer as they seek to bolster their defensive options, but Sheffield United appear in no rush to sell ahead of the new season.