SHEFFIELD United are poised to open talks with Barnsley captain Brian Howard, The Star understands.
Howard, who is out of contract at the end of the season, was a no show at Oakwell for Barnsley's 0-0 Championship draw against Norwich.
With United keen to increase their options in midfield, the 25-year-old has been identified as a suitable targe
t by Kevin Blackwell.
However, with only loan signings permitted at this stage of the campaign, the United manager is expected to initially offer Howard a short term loan if negotiations prove successful.
It is understood that Howard himself has not had any talks with United.
Barnsley manager Simon Davey refused to be drawn on the reasons behind the surprise omission from the side of his inspirational captain - amid speculation the midfielder could be on the move.
The club is believed to be making a statement on that on Monday.
Media reports pre-season linked the Blades with Howard, who scored the winner in the Tykes famous FA Cup win at Liverpool earlier this year.
Blackwell at the time ruled out any interest and said "it's a non-starter". But today he would not be drawn on the subject – refusing to confirm or deny the story.
He has also been linked recently with Premiership clubs Wigan Athletic and Bolton Wanderers, along with top Championship side Wolverhampton Wanderers – but there have been no official approaches.
Howard started his career as a trainee with Southampton but never made a full appearance before signing for Swindon Town in 2003 - making his debut against Sheffield Wednesday.
He signed for Barnsley in the summer of 2005 and was named Barnsley Player of the Year for the 2006–07 season, after scoring eight goals in the battle against relegation. He then signed a new contract extending his stay at Oakwell until 2009.
Howard was acting captain for most of last season, due to the absence of Paul Reid. Davey appointed him as first team captain in January.
He scored a goal in the 90th minute when Barnsley dumped Liverpool out of the FA Cup in February 2008. Barnsley then knocked Chelsea out of the FA Cup, two giant-killing victories in a row.
At the end of the same season, Howard was named in the Coca-Cola Championship Team of the Season for his contributions.
The former England U-20 international is also eligible to play for
Scotland and after he was called by manager George Burley he is now in the process of trying to join the Scottish national side.
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