Sheffield Utd become first English side to sign player from Russia since start of war as Uremovic has contract suspended
SHEFFIELD UNITED have become the first English side to sign a foreign player from Russia amid the war in Ukraine.
The Championship promotion-chasers have swooped for Croatian international defender Filip Uremovic.
The 25-year-old had played 21 matches this term for Rubin Kazan in Russias’ top-flight before the invasion of Ukraine started last month.
Fifa announced that Russia-based players could suspend their contracts, initially until the end of the season, in order to let them leave the country.
Therefore, Uremovic has subsequently arrived at Bramall Lane on a free on a deal until June.
Blades boss Paul Heckingbottom said: “Filip is someone our recruitment team know all about.
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“They've watched him since he played for Croatia Under-21s, but financially he's always been out of the club's reach.
“Unfortunately, because of the terrible situation between Ukraine and Russia, players have had contracts suspended and after someone contacted me about him, we spoke and thankfully he sees this as a great place to come and play in the short-term.”
Uremovic’s arrival will provide Heckingbottom with a huge boost ahead of the run-in.
Sheff Utd are currently in the middle of a defensive crisis with Jack O'Connell, Chris Basham, Jayden Bogle, Enda Stevens and George Baldock all ruled out.
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They have enjoyed a huge upturn in form over recent months after a dreadful start to life back in the Championship following relegation from the Premier League.
The Blades are currently fifth, with a top six finish earning a play-off place, with just eight games left to play.
Uremovic could make his debut at Stoke City on Saturday 2 April.