Sheffield United hit major snag in contract negotiations as Blades welcome bids for wantaway midfielder

The Blades began 2021 with a 2-0 defeat at Crystal Palace on Saturday and now Chris Wilder has the opportunity to bolster his squad, if he feels it is necessary.

Wilder has previously spoken of his desire to bring in fresh faces as he battles to retain United’s top-flight status.

So, what deals are the Blades and their top-flight counterparts being linked with – both incomings and outgoings?

As always, we’re sharing the latest news and gossip from around the web – scroll down to see the latest:

Sheffield United want to sign Preston’s Ben Davies but there is a major snag in contract negotiations as the defender would need to take a pay cut if the Blades are relegated. (Alan Nixon - The Sun)

The Blades will invite offers for John Lundstram this month, who is out-of-contract at the end of the season. Rangers are waiting in the wings. (The Athletic)

Newcastle United are among the clubs interested in Hull City youngster Jacob Greaves with the 20-year-old establishing himself as a regular in Grant McCann’s starting XI. (Daily Telegraph)

Magpies defender Ciaran Clark is being closely monitored by Crystal Palace, who is free to sign a pre-contract agreement this month as he enters the final six months of his contract. (Daily Telegraph)

Schalke winger Rabbi Matondo, recently linked with Newcastle, Crystal Palace and Brighton - has been given the green light to join Stoke City after their loan offer was accepted. (Football Insider)

Leeds United are planning to open talks with Patrick Bamford over a lucrative new contract amid fears he could be targetted by clubs elsewhere. (The Sun)

Arsenal, Leeds United and Crystal Palace are showing an interest in Queens Park Rangers number one Seny Dieng. (Daily Mirror via HITC)

Mike Arteta’s Gunners have joined a long list of Premier League clubs - including Leicester, Newcastle, Southampton, Brighton and Burnley - interested in Celtic’s Ryan Christie. (90min)

Crystal Palace are leading the chase for Reading midfielder Michael Olise, while Leeds also remain keen after trying to sign him in the summer. (The Sun)

Burnley have put Derby County’s Jason Knight and Huddersfield Town’s Lewis O’Brien on their “shopping list” following the Clarets’ recent takeover. (The Sun)

Frank Lampard's job as Chelsea manager is under serious threat and the Stamford Bridge club have begun to explore alternative options. (The Athletic)