Michael Cooper deal could break Argyle transfer record

Sheffield United have secured the signing of goalkeeper Michael Cooper from Plymouth Argyle, in a deal that could break Argyle’s outgoing transfer record.

The move includes performance-related add-ons and a sell-on clause that could see the total fee rise significantly.

Cooper, who will turn 25 in October, has been a standout player for Plymouth Argyle, making 161 appearances for the club since joining as a youth player at the age of 11.

Born in Exeter, Cooper quickly established himself within the club’s academy, receiving guidance from former Argyle goalkeeper Rhys Wilmot as he progressed through the ranks.

His unexpected first-team debut came in October 2017 when he was just 18 years old. During a match against Blackburn Rovers, Cooper was called into action as a substitute for the injured Kyle Letheren.

Despite the pressure, Cooper helped Argyle secure a 1-1 draw with a series of impressive saves. 

His second league appearance came under similarly high-stakes circumstances in the final game of the 2018/19 season. 

Cooper was again brought on as a substitute with the score tied at 2-2, and although Argyle won the match 3-2, other results saw them relegated from League One.

Cooper became Argyle’s first-choice goalkeeper in the 2020/21 season, after serving as a backup to loanee Alex Palmer. 

He played every league game for two consecutive seasons, solidifying his reputation as one of the top goalkeepers in the league. 

However, his streak was interrupted by a knee injury suffered in February 2023 during a match against Sheffield Wednesday, causing him to miss the final months of a promotion-winning campaign.

Cooper made a return from injury in October of the following season but was sidelined again due to another knee issue after just nine games. 

Despite these setbacks, he managed to play in the final ten games of the season, helping Argyle secure their Championship status.

His departure from Home Park marks the end of an era for Plymouth Argyle, as Cooper leaves as a proud graduate of the club’s academy. 

Sheffield United reportedly paid an initial fee of £2 million, with the potential for the deal to rise to £4 million, depending on performance-related bonuses and future transfer fees.

The transfer comes amid speculation about Cooper’s future at Argyle, particularly following the arrival of Wayne Rooney as head coach in early July. 

Cooper now embarks on a new chapter in his career at Sheffield United, with fans eager to see how he will perform at Bramall Lane.