SHEFFIELD United could be tempted to launch a raid for Barnsley's Brian Howard after the Oakwell midfielder revealed he has attracted interest from a number of other clubs.
Howard gained national recognition when he scored the winning goal at Liverpool in the fifth round of last season's FA Cup before cementing his reputation with another impressive display during the quarter-final victory over Chelsea.
The 24-year-old possesses all the attributes manager Kevin Blackwell is looking for in a player as he begins the process of strengthening his squad ahead of the 2008/09 campaign.
"I have still got a year left on my contract at Barnsley," Howard told the Professional Footballers' Association after being named in its Championship Team of the Year. "But I know there are a few clubs who want to put bids in so we will have to wait and see what happens."
Barnsley will not comment on speculation, but Howard is thought to be valued at more than £3m.
Whether United submit an official bid for Howard remains to be seen, but Blackwell is believed to have already fired his first shot in the transfer market with sources at Derby County suggesting he is competing with Nottingham Forest for the signature of Wales international Robert Earnshaw.
The former Cardiff, Norwich and West Bromwich Albion marksman has been told he can leave Pride Park after scoring just twice in 25 appearances for Paul Jewell's side but boasts a proven track record at Championship level.
Earnshaw has been on the verge of a move to Bramall Lane before when Neil Warnock, now in charge of Crystal Palace, explored the possibility of luring him away from The Hawthorns.
Derby are known to be monitoring Rob Hulse's position at United as they look to rebuild following a disastrous season in the top-flight.
But with Blackwell insisting that the striker is not for sale, their chances of securing a swap deal involving the 28-year-old striker would appear to be slim.
Meanwhile, United have offered assistance to the Chinese province of Sichuan which was struck by a devastating earthquake on Monday.
Chengdu Blades, the club United bought in January 2006, are located in the region and its players will undertake various initiatives, including blood donation sessions and school visits, to help alleviate the suffering.
What do you think? Post your comments below. READ MOREOwls fan Jim thought he 'was a goner'Blades bosses fly out to help Capacity for more: Wednesday and South Yorkshire rivals looking to lure more fans to half-empty groundsOUCH!! - Sheffield Tae Kown Do expert pole-axes opponent to take gold: CLICK HERE TO SEE KNOCKOUT VIDEO FOOTAGEFootball headlines.More Blades.More Owls.More Spireites.More Rovers.More Reds.More Millers.More Ice Hockey.More rugby.More boxing.Sports columnists.All sport categories.The full article contains 488 words and appears in Sheffield Star newspaper.
