PLOTTING a course out of the Championship must be Sheffield United's number one priority this season.
But Kevin Blackwell has resolved to peer beyond the horizon and sign a player capable of flourishing in the top-flight as well as the Football League when he next enters the transfer market.
With Lee Martin, who the United manager believed was destined to return to South Yorkshire this season, being shunted in the direction of Nottingham Forest, identifying a winger capable of providing Stephen Quinn with competition along the left flank has jumped to the top of Black-well's 'to do' list.
But talent is not the only criteria those names set to come under consideration must fulfil.
"Whoever comes in next must not just be for a season or so," Blackwell said. "They must be a player for the long-term who will serve this club for a good few years to come.
"That's the calibre of person I'm looking for.
"Not somebody who is run of the mill.
What do you think? Post your comments below."I could go out any bring one of those in tomorrow but I'm not going to bother doing that."
Blackwell added: "Quality isn't the only thing I'm looking for. New additions must have the right mental approach too.
"We're a big club and we're up there to be shot at. Being able to deal with that situation and the pressure it brings takes a certain type of person.
"So, yes, I look at that too."
Blackwell's admission represents a change of tack for United with the former Leeds and Luton chief previously stating that his recruitment drive would focus on proven Football League talent.
Meanwhile, United paid £110,000 in agent fees between January and June this year, the FL have reported.
The figure relates to 16 transactions, including new registrations and contractual negotiations.
Five clubs - Blackpool, Burnley, Cardiff, Sheffield Wednesday and West Bromwich Albion - returned zero amounts.
Leicester City, who were relegated, spent the most - £519,355 - following 31 transactions. QPR, this afternoon's visitors to Bramall Lane, committed £310,000 to player representatives.
READ MORE Football headlines. Football gossip. More Blades Sports columnists. All sport categoriesThe full article contains 369 words and appears in Sheffield Star newspaper.
