Sheffield United transfer target could be forced to take dramatic measures in order to force through a move to Bramall Lane

Chris Wilder has made the former Chelsea youngster one of his top targets in this summer’s transfer market, alongside AFC Bournemouth’s Aaron Ramsdale, Antonee Robinson of Wigan Athletic and Nottingham Forest’s Matty Cash.

Although Swift’s representatives have made it clear their client wishes to play Premier League football, Yongge, a Chinese businessman and investor, has reportedly personally intervened in the negotiation process - declaring the 25-year-old will not be allowed to depart for the time being at least.

With Reading set to begin pre-season training today, sources close to the proposed deal believe that could open a new front in the battle for a player Wilder views as a replacement for John Lundstram, whose failure to sign a new contract has cast doubt over his future at United.

Although Yongge’s hardline stance is a source of frustration, Wilder and his coaching staff have instructed Bramall Lane’s hierarchy to continue their pursuit of a professional regarded as one of the brightest talents in the Championship.

Mark Bowen, Wilder’s counterpart in Berkshire, is unlikely to want to keep Swift if his head has been turned by United’s interest - prompting officials in South Yorkshire to view Yongge’s actions as an attempt to drive up their valuation of the former England under-21 international, who scored six times in 45 appearances last term. Yongge has been emboldened by suggestions that newly promoted Leeds and Aston Villa, who narrowly avoided relegation, are ready to pounce if United shift their attention elsewhere.

Rangers’ Glen Kamara, who represents Finland, has previously been monitored by Wilder but Swift is thought to remain his preferred option if, as expected, Lundstram departs.

The Liverpudlian was offered an improved deal before Christmas but, having so far refused to put pen to paper, United are ready to listen to offers with Brighton and Hove Albion and West Ham understood to have cast admiring glances in his direction.

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