The truth about Sheffield United target's thoughts on a Championship move

The Serb, many Sheffield United supporters’ preferred choice to succeed Chris Wilder at Bramall Lane, had reportedly placed clubs in England’s second tier on red alert earlier this week by telling his advisors to explore openings in the EFL as well as the top-flight.

That provoked a groundswell of excitement among United followers, who interpreted it as a clear signal Jokanovic was attempting to send a message to Bramall Lane’s board of directors with the search for Wilder’s replacement about to enter its second month.

But sources close to the former Watford and Fulham chief, who recently steered Al-Gharafa into the Asian Champions League play-offs, claim he has yet to make any firm decisions on the next phase of his career.

Nor, despite apparently featuring on a shortlist of names which also includes Oostende head coach Alexander Blessin, has anyone either working directly on United’s behalf or with the authority to represent their interests contacted Jokanovic’s representatives.

Officials at the Qatari club, who appointed him two years ago, would ideally like Jokanovic to remain in charge of the seven time QSL title-winners.

However, he is widely expected to return to Europe where his family is still based. Jokanovic’s contract is set to expire later this month, when his team are scheduled to sit down and weigh-up their options before plotting a course of action.

Having won promotion to the top-flight at both Vicarage Road and Craven Cottage, Jokanovic is set to be in high-demand should he leave the Middle East following a successful spell in Doha.

Having represented the likes of Chelsea, Partizan Belgrade and Deportivo La Coruna during his playing career, the former midfielder has developed a reputation for delivering success using an attractive, attack-minded style of football.

United, who face Wolverhampton Wanderers this weekend, are set to be relegated from PL after falling 18 points adrift of safety.

Wider’s five year long reign came to an end four weeks ago, following the deterioration of his relationship with United’s hierarchy.