Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has already been discussing his potential targets for the January transfer window.
The Blades have made a superb start to their first season in the Premier League in 12 years. They currently sit fifth in the table after 12 matches.
Yet Wilder admits that he has begun talks with the club owners about signing new talent. The 52-year-old will be able to add to his squad as of January 1.
One area that could well be targeted for improvement is central midfield. United play three in the middle and although have a number of options there currently, could add to that.
The Championship has proven to be a key source for the Blades transfer so far this term. So here are three midfielders from the division that could well be on Wilder’s radar.
Who are the potential Sheffield United targets?
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Josh Brownhill
Twenty-four hours before deadline day in August, TEAMtalk reported that United and Burnley were both interested in Bristol City’s Josh Brownhill.
It was said it would cost at least £15m to land Brownhill – a box-to-box player whom Wilder is apparently a long-term admirer of.
The 23-year-old is out of contract in the summer of 2021.
Paddy McNair
A potentially cheaper option is McNair, who was another linked with United over the summer. According to The Sun, the versatile Middlesbrough man was available for around £5m and the Blades were interested.
Initially considered a centre-back when breaking through at boyhood side Manchester United, the Northern Ireland international has since developed into a defensive midfielder.
Boro are currently struggling in the relegation zone in the second tier.
Kalvin Phillips
Well connected Leeds United journalist, Phil Hay, confirmed that the Blades were keen on Phillips back in August.
At the time it was thought the 23-year-old was valued at around £20m. However, Football Insider now claims that bids in excess of that were rejected over the summer.
They also report the Red Devils are preparing a move for Phillips.