Sheffield United and Swansea City are reportedly competing to sign Leyton Orient player Ethan Galbraith, according to sources at Football Insider.
Leyton Orient, having failed to secure promotion and with Galbraith entering the final year of his contract, is said to be anticipating interest in the Northern Ireland international.
Galbraith’s performance for Leyton Orient this past season was described as “outstanding,” as he contributed to the club reaching the League One Play-Off final, where they were defeated by Charlton.1 His versatility, primarily playing at right-back but also featuring in various midfield roles, has attracted the attention of several clubs.
During the January transfer window, It was reported that Swansea City had a £1 million bid for Galbraith rejected by Leyton Orient. The midfielder remained with Richie Wellens’ side for the remainder of the season. Following Orient’s unsuccessful promotion bid to the Championship, Swansea has reportedly renewed their interest in the former Manchester United youngster. Sheffield United, another Championship team, has also reportedly indicated their keenness to secure a deal for the 24-year-old. With only one year remaining on his current contract, this summer may present Leyton Orient’s final opportunity to generate a transfer fee for the versatile midfielder.
Both Sheffield United and Swansea City are expected to be active in the summer transfer window as they aim to contend for promotion in the 2025/26 campaign. Swansea has already secured defender Ricardo Santos on a free transfer from Bolton, marking him as their third summer signing. Conversely, Sheffield United is in a period of recovery after missing out on an immediate return to the Premier League following their defeat to Sunderland in the Championship play-off final. Sheffield United is currently evaluating whether to retain manager Chris Wilder. Amidst this, the club continues to explore potential squad additions, with Galbraith emerging as an option.
The Northern Ireland international previously had loan spells with Doncaster Rovers and Salford City before joining Leyton Orient in the summer of 2023.
