What fresh claims about Dean Henderson's status at Sheffield United really tell us about Man Utd's thinking

The goalkeeper, whose loan at Sheffield United is scheduled to expire in 24 days time, has transformed himself into one of England’s number one in waiting since first arriving at Bramall Lane nearly two years ago. Losing his services, with the season unlikely to be completed until July at the earliest, would represent a huge and potentially costly blow to their hopes of qualifying for Europe and boosting the club’s already burgeoning profile.

But the stories that senior figures at Old Trafford are reportedly concerned about the potential consequences of extending Henderson’s agreement should be taken as a compliment by Wilder and his staff. Only two points behind their namesakes and with a game in hand on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side, United now viewed as genuine rivals, for the next 10 matches at least, by the 20 time champions of England.

Although the articles confirm the option of refusing to sanction an extension is clearly being considered by some in the North-West - most top-flight sides teams are expected to allow their loanees to remain in situ until the calendar is completed - United remain confident a number of factors mean that doomsday scenario will not come to pass.

The relationship between Wilder and members of Solskjaer’s inner circle is understood to be strong, according to sources on both sides of the Pennines, while the Norwegian appears unflinching in his belief that David de Gea should remain Manchester United’s first choice between the posts for the foreseeable future.

Perhaps most crucial, however, is Henderson’s desire to stay with United until a decision is taken on his short-term future with Solskjaer’s squad later this year. On the cusp of a first senior cap, the 22-year-old has made it plain he would not welcome the prospect of serving as de Gea’s understudy next term. Or for the remainder of this campaign either.

Solskjaer, who has been approached by Wilder about the possibility of renewing Henderson’s temporary deal for a second time, will remind his detractors that the former under-21 international will be ineligible for selection when United and Manchester United meet - most probably at a neutral venue - should the PL’s ‘Project Restart’ receive the green light from the Government.

Simon Moore donned the gloves when Solskjaer’s men drew 3-3 in South Yorkshire earlier this term, but Michael Verrips, previously of Mechelen, has deputised for Henderson since his colleague was diagnosed with an injury during the build-up to Christmas.

Verrips, contracted until 2023, made his United debut during January’s FA Cup win over AFC Fylde, but was replaced just before half-time following an accidental collision with Kean Bryan. He was later treated for concussion.

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