Sirius are pursuing a surprise first Allsvenskan title despite selling Robbie Ure, their prolific leading scorer, to Sevilla during an unbeaten season. The Uppsala club believe the transfer validates a development-led strategy that has enabled them to challenge Sweden’s traditionally wealthier and more successful sides.

Ure scored 15 league goals in 15 matches before his reported £5.6m-plus-add-ons move, having scored 31 goals in 50 appearances overall for Sirius. The club are 12 points clear of Hammarby with just under half the season remaining, and have reinvested in 22-year-old PSV forward Jesper Uneken and Finland Under-21 midfielder Otso Liimatta. Sirius previously followed a similar approach with Leo Walta, last season’s top scorer, whose move to Swansea ultimately brought in about £3m.