Sheffield United boss Wilder makes signing pledge to Blades supporters

Wilder, who took over last month from Nigel Adkins, hoped to have the majority of his first-team squad in place before United reported back for pre-season training yesterday, but was last week thwarted in his pursuit of striker Alex Revell - who elected to join his old club, Northampton Town, instead.

Wilder, who has so far unveiled winger Mark Duffy and defender Chris Hussey as new signings, has placed three centre-halves and a ‘targetman’ striker at the top of his wishlist.

He is thought to be an admirer of Kyle McFadzean, the former United youngster, but MK Dons are reluctant to lose his services - although the defender is understood to have handed in a transfer request.

“It’s still early and a lot of people - players and managers - are still away,” Wilder said.

“But there is a hell of a lot of work going on behind the scenes here, at Bramall Lane and the training ground, speaking to clubs, agents and players. Fans want to see signings every week but we have more to come.

“We’re delighted with the two that we have, but we appreciate that we need more. The hard work is going on to make that happen but we want to get it right, so we won’t rush into anything and just throw money at it.”

Wilder, who expects to announce a new head of recruitment next week following Lee Turnbull’s departure last month, brought United’s players back for pre-season indoor testing yesterday and will see them on grass for the first time on Monday.

“There’ll be a few changes to the squad in the next few weeks,” Wilder added, “but I’m looking forward to meeting all the players and hopefully they’re looking forward to the work ahead.”

McFadzean - whose younger brother, Callum, was recently released by United - made 44 appearances for MK Dons last season as they were relegated to League One. They have already let three centre-backs - Antony Kay, Jordan Spence and Matt Upson - go, and are reluctant to sell McFadzean to a League One rival.