Sheffield United will be desperate to ensure their season continues as it has started, as Chris Wilder's men sit firmly in the promotion picture.

However, last season was similar around this time of year, and the Blades will be doing all they can to make sure that their form doesn't dip and that they remain firmly involved at the top end of the table come May 2019.

There is still room for improvement in the United squad, and the January window is going to be a big one for Chris Wilder and his team if they are to turn themselves into genuine promotion contenders.

Today has seen the emergence of news that Bristol City could be looking to sign Sunderland forward Josh Maja, and we at FLW think that this could end up sparking quite the scramble for the 19-year-old's signature.

With that in mind, we've taken a look at TWO reasons why Sheffield United need to be getting their name in the hat to sign Maja...

Put simply, they need strikers

Billy Sharp is having another superb season, and David McGoldrick and Leon Clarke are once again chipping in, but there is a desperate lack of pace and attacking options in the squad at the moment.

Signing someone like Maja would be a big boost, proving to fans that the club are looking at young talent in their hunt for new players.

Maja is already made for first team football, and would no doubt make a big impact at Bramall Lane.

Prove they can pip their rivals to signings

There is bound to be more interest in Maja, and Bristol City will no doubt not be alone in their pursuit of Maja.

However, if United can pip a host of Championship rivals to the signing of someone like Maja, it would be a massive boost to the club's confidence in capturing top players.

United always seem to be outbid or outspent in terms of wages when it comes to big signings, and if they can sign Maja, it would be a huge boost for all concerned with the club.