How John Lundstram can still save his Sheffield United career

The Star understands United reopened talks with Lundstram and his agent earlier this season in an effort to try and break the deadlock - 12 months after first inviting the former England under-20 international to discuss fresh terms.

Although senior figures at the Premier League club initially felt progress was being made, the negotiations failed to end with an agreement being reached - prompting the decision, which The Star revealed on Tuesday, to inform Lundstram he can leave five months before his present deal expires this summer.

However, the 26-year-old is believed to have been informed the latest proposal United officials made to his representative will remain available for him to accept should he experience a change of heart. Crucially, though, Lundstram has also been notified the salary package and bonus benefits it contains will not be revised or improved. Sources close to the process have confirmed this is the case - with United’s hierarchy scheduling no further meetings with either Lundstram or any member of his inner circle. Despite refusing to comment on the matter either publicly or privately, Wilder is thought to endorse the decision to sell Lundstram when the market reopens rather than see him leave for nothing.

But coaching staff also recognise Lundstram could refuse to move, and choose to simply run down his contract instead.

It remains to be seen if the matter will influence Wilder’s selections for Saturday’s game against Manchester City althouygh, with John Fleck nursing a back complaint, Unitred could be forced to utilise Lundstram until such time as the Scot returns to action.

Jack O’Connell and Lys Mousset have also been ruled-out of the meeting with City, but Max Lowe could return to actuon if he passes a concussion return to play protocol. The defender suffered a blow to the head during United’s draw with Fulham earlier this month.