Hamer exit does not feel imminent ahead of Bochum game

Hamer has scored 18 goals in 114 league appearances for Sheffield United [Shutterstock] Sheffield and Bochum have been twin cities for 76 years and there are definitely similarities between the two. There's a cultural hub in the centre that feels a little like Fargate. There's also an industrial feel as you work your way through the streets from nearby Dortmund airport. The red side of Sheffield are here for a friendly on Saturday. Nearly 2,000 Blades fans are expected to attend the game at Vonovia Ruhrstadion. Many were already in the city on Thursday night, with others camped in Cologne or Dusseldorf. Much of the conversation among fans will focus on the future of midfielder Gustavo Hamer, amid rumours of interest from his former club Coventry - with some reports suggesting a deal is close. There's undoubtedly something in all the talk yet the feeling on Friday morning at least was that an announcement was not imminent. Hamer, 29, who is in the last year of his contract, was training as usual and in one small-sided game intercepted a pass, cut away from a challenge and finished. One of his team-mates in the background shouted "star boy" as he returned to his position. There will also be hope of some new additions sooner rather than later, with Leicester defender Harry Souttar a confirmed target. The 27-year-old definitely isn't in Bochum - you wouldn't miss him if he were - but the hope will be that he isn't too far from rejoining the Blades. Striker Patrick Bamford, 32, isn't training in Germany as his partner prepares to give birth and another individual not here in Bochum is recent trialist Rabbi Matondo. The 25-year-old Wales international winger used to play 20 minutes up the road for Schalke but he hasn't travelled and that would seemingly suggest he isn't joining the Blades - but we'll check with manager Chris Wilder when he's made available to the media. The players and staff on Thursday went to an Italian restaurant before the coaches indulged in a bit of karaoke. Goalkeeping coach Matt Duke revealed he 'd gone for Luther Vandross and Lionel Richie, while first-team coach Gary McSheffrey said his speciality was Eagle-Eye Cherry. On a more serious note, McSheffrey discussed the way the coaches are connecting together to prepare the team for the new season. "I think it's a really good staff. Everyone gets on with each other. There's no egos," he told BBC Radio Sheffield. "Nobody's scared to say something to someone. There's a really good support network around the players. I have to say, the players have been spot on as well. Their attitude has been great." McSheffrey also noted he's focusing on the attacking and wide players. Recent arrival Phil Jones is looking after the defenders while assistant boss Micky Collins is spending extra time with the midfielders. Latest Sheffield United news, analysis and fan views Get Sheffield United news sent straight to your phone