The latest on Sheffield United's interest in Serie A defender

United made an approach for Colley earlier this year, after discovering defender Jack O’Connell required surgery to correct the persistent knee complaint which has troubled him for much of his professional career.

Although the work permit issues which complicated their discussions with officials in Genoa meant a deal failed to materialise, United are considering a return to the negotiating table having failed to fill the vacancy for a left-sided centre-half created by O’Connell’s absence before the October deadline.

Despite preparing to sell Colley before he enters the final year of his contract, the Gambia international has started all of Sampdoria’s last three games - against Napoli, Verona and Crotone - after Bartosz Bereszynski suffered a muscle strain during this month’s home defeat by Milan.

The Pole, whose presence has limited Colley’s chances in Serie A this term, is expected to return to action shortly. But Ranieri, who took charge of Sampdoria in October, is unlikely to sanction Colley’s departure until Bereszynski enters the final stages of his rehabilitation.

Wilder, who has told The Star he is prepared to look abroad in the search for reinforcements following United’s difficult start to the Premier League season, wants the two loan signings he will be permitted to make to be completed “as quickly as possible” in order to enhance his squad’s survival chances.

Despite ending a run of eight straight defeats with a draw at Brighton and Hove Albion last weekend, United will enter Boxing Day’s game against Everton at the bottom of the table having taken only a point from their opening 14 games of this term’s competition.

With John Lundstram, who will miss that match through suspension, being told he can leave Bramall Lane after failing to agree a new deal, Wilder also wants to strengthen his options in midfield.

Jesse Lingard of Manchester United is known to feature on United’s wish list.

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