SHEFFIELD United are awaiting a response from Wigan Athletic as the war of attrition for David Cotterill's services enters a critical phase.
The Wales international winger is now Kevin Blackwell's top priority in the transfer market following the arrival of Greg Halford and Sun Jihai last week.
Cotterill, who enjoyed a successful spell on loan at Bramall Lane last season, is understood to have indicated his desire to return to South Yorkshire during exploratory talks between all three parties earlier this summer.
Having admitted his squad would benefit from an injection of width and pace, Blackwell has broken with tradition by speaking openly about his determination to secure Cotterill on a permanent basis next term.
But the exact details of the deal being discussed remain a closely guarded secret as the United manager looks to apply the finishing touches to his promotion blueprint before the Championship curtain-raiser at Birmingham City on August 9.
However, it would appear that Blackwell has submitted what he regards as being a realistic offer for Steve Bruce.
Although his respect for footballing protocol prevents Blackwell from talking about the specifics of those discussions, he has warned he will refuse to be held to ransom by clubs looking to exploit United's Premier League ambitions.
"I know who I want," Blackwell said. "And I also know what I think they are worth."
Meanwhile, David Carney's attempts to establish himself in United's starting line-up have been complicated further by the addition of two more friendly fixtures to Australia's calendar.
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