Report: Sheffield United defender Jack O'Connell linked with shock move to Champions League club

The 25-year-old has been a key figure in the Blades incredible start to life in the Premier League, playing every minute for Chris Wilder’s men thus far.

And he produced yet another solid display in Saturday’s dramatic draw at Arsenal, surviving a VAR appeal for his tackle on Bukayo Saka. His performances this season have seen him emerge as a contender for an England call-up in recent months.

The reports suggest O’Connell is being considered as a long-term replacement for Spurs’ Jan Vertonghen.

But Blades boss Wilder would be loathe to lose one of the key men in his much-lauded system and the former Brentford man is wrapped up under contract until 2023, having signed an extension alongside defensive partner Enda Stevens last year.

Wilder said at the time: "We talk about the long-term and resigning players that we want to build the future around and that's important for me as a manager.

"I believe in forward thinking and planning and to have Jack sign an extension to his contract is great news, it's deserved reward for Jack for his performances since he came to the club and it's been a really good fit.

"We've given him the opportunity as a football club and staff, but he's had to take that opportunity and he's certainly done that."