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Compliments Blades could do without
HAVING conceded just 39 goals in 46 outings last season, it was inevitable that members of Sheffield United's back four would catch the eye of Premiership managers looking to strengthen their defences.
Better to have players someone actually wants rather than carry a squad filled with names impossible to unload at a jumble sale.
Kevin Blackwell should regard it as a compliment that the likes of Matthew Kilgallon and Kyle Naughton continue to be linked with transfer elsewhere, although the Sheffield United chief will take little comfort from that fact when he digests the newspapers over breakfast.
It is impossible to predict with complete certainty whether either will be still be wearing the red and white stripes when Blackwell's side embark on their latest challenge for promotion at Middlesbrough in six weeks' time.
There have been, however, encouraging signs.
Contrary to reports, Birmingham had led the queue of club's competing for Kilgallon's services as negotiations with Cardiff City over Roger Johnson threatened to reach impasse.
An approach from Wigan - where boss Roberto Martinez is a confirmed admirer - or Wolverhampton Wanderers can not be entirely ruled out.
But Wednesday evening's announcement that United's Championship rivals had finally brokered a deal for the combative centre-half will have raised a collective sigh of relief at Bramall Lane.
At the time of writing, Johnson's move had yet to be completed but, barring any unforeseen hitches, the 26-year-old is likely to partner Scott Danns, another new arrival at St Andrews following his switch from Coventry.
"We can officially confirm that we have come to a financial agreement with Birmingham City Football Club for the permanent transfer of Roger Johnson," read a statement on Cardiff's website.
"Roger has now been given permission to talk to the newly-promoted Premiership side."
United have attempted to dampen speculation that Kilgallon is heading for the exit door by revealing that further talks with his representatives are scheduled for next week.
The former Leeds youngster has improved immeasurably - both in terms of positional sense and physique - since leaving Elland Road in January 2007.
United paid an initial 1.75 million to acquire him and Kilgallon's value has significantly increased. United would still prefer to have the player rather than the cash, but ultimately everyone has a price.
Aston Villa and Everton - who continue to monitor Naughton's situation - know that only too well.
Despite the success of United's off-the pitch ventures, former loanee Greg Halford is almost certain to prove beyond reach as Blackwell balances his financial and sporting responsibilities.
Halford's 10-month stint in South Yorkshire was a success but his wage demands are expected to be prohibitive.
Sunderland appear keen to do business but Halford, if he does leave the North-east, is likely to head elsewhere.
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Weather for Sheffield
Friday 10 February 2012
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