Sheffield United are close to signing Ben Osborn from Nottingham Forest, reports the Sheffield Star.
Negotiations between the two clubs have reach an advanced stage as manager Chris Wilder continues to target the Championship’s best talent.
“That’s the market we’re in, (targeting) players out of the Championship who want to prove a point in the Premier League,” Wilder said.
The Blades boss has already proven this with recent deals. Callum Robinson became their club record signing after joining from Preston North End, while Luke Freeman has been snapped up from QPR.
With the addition of Phil Jagielka from Everton, Osborn will become United’s fourth new addition of the summer. This is ahead of the South Yorkshire side’s first season in the Premier League in 12 years.
How much will Osborn cost Sheffield United?
MORE UNITED STORIES
According to the Sun, the Blades made a £3m offer for Osborn. However, Forest were seeking closer to £6m in order to sell the 24-year-old.
It would therefore be unsurprising if the final amount was somewhere in the middle of those two figures.
The Reds position of negotiation was hindered when Osborn entered the final year of his contract at the City Ground. They need to cash in now or face losing their academy product for free in 12 months time.
United are targeting Osborn as they seek competition for Enda Stevens in the left wing-back position. The former England Under-20 international is a versatile player who last season played at left-back and out wide in midfield.
Stevens has established himself as a key player in Wilder’s team. Last term Middlesbrough loanee Marvin Johnson was his backup, but failed to truly impress.
Osborn, meanwhile, was a consistent performer for Forest, playing 44 of their Championship matches. His ability to also play in central midfield makes him an even more attractive prospect.