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Chris Wilder, the Sheffield United manager, revealed he has made a tentative enquiry about the possibility of signing Dean Henderson on loan for a third season after suggesting the youngster is already England’s best goalkeeper.

Wilder made the admission after watching Henderson, aged 22, save a Gabriel Jesus penalty during tonight’s game against Manchester City having earlier excelled himself to deny Raheem Sterling and Nicolas Otamendi.

Henderson, who helped Wilder’s side gain promotion from the Championship last term after completing a temporary move from Manchester United, renewed that agreement at the start of the present Premier League campaign.

Having been drafted into Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions’ squad for the first time in October, Henderson has already intimated he would not be happy with a bit part role at Old Trafford despite putting pen to paper on a new contract there six months ago.

Dean Henderson could be on his way back to Bramall Lane next season | JPIMedia

Asked if he has explored the possibility of retaining Henderson’s services, Wilder said: “If there’s a decision from Manchester United for him to come out for another year, we’d definitely take that.

“We’ve already talked about that but he’s Manchester United’s player and they will decide what happens.”

United were beaten by Pep Guardiola’s side when substitute Sergio Aguero, profiting from Kevin de Bruyne’s superb pass, scored the only goal of the game during the second-half.

Moments earlier, Oli McBurnie had gone close to opening the scoring for United after Henderson’s masterclass had frustrated the reigning Premier League champions.

Dean Henderson acknowledges the fans after Sheffield United's 1-0 defeat to Manchester City at Bramall Lane. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Despite still waiting to win his first senior cap, former under-21 international Henderson is already being backed to secure a place in Southgate’s plans for this summer’s European Championship finals.

“I know there’s a pecking order for England,” Wilder, who completed the purchase of Nottingham Forest defender Jack Robinson ahead of kick-off, said. “But we must have some really good goalkeepers ahead of him for them to be above him.

“He’s still a baby. But he’s been outstanding throughout my time here.

“He’s not error free. You wouldn’t expect him to be, at such a young age.

“But what he does have is the ability to learn and show that mental strength.”

Sheffield United open talks with Manchester United about keeping 'outstanding' Dean Henderson