The reasons why Sheffield United remain hopeful they can bring in Sander Berge

Berge, a Norway international, remains the Premier League club’s number one target ahead of tomorrow’s transfer deadline although, as The Star revealed earlier this week, Chris Wilder has identified two high-calibre alternatives should the Belgian’s fail to accept their bid.

United are also understood to be interested in signing Dutch centre-forward Richairo Zivkovic after sanctioning Callum Robinson’s departure on loan.

The Republic of Ireland striker has joined West Bromwich Albion on loan until the end of the season and officials in South Yorkshire made a similar proposal to Changchun Yatai; where the 23-year-old is preparing for the new Chinese season.

United’s focus, however, remains on pushing through a deal for Berge.

Genk’s involvement in the Champions League made it impossible to reach an agreement at the time. But with Hannes Wolf’s side finishing bottom of Group E and United eighth in the table ahead of this weekend’s visit to Crystal Palace, agents acting on Wilder’s behalf are convinced Berge, one of Europe’s most promising young players, now wants to pursue a career in England.

Despite Genk’s efforts to spark an auction for his services, United’s offer remains the only one one their table. The fact Wilder has instructed his employers to continue talks with the Jupiler League outfit suggests Berge hopes an agreement can be reached.

If not, United will turn their attention to Mady Camara of Olympiacos or Hoffenheim’s Florian Grillitsch.