Sheffield United have a long rich history of being able to produce quality footballers, whether it be from their own academy, or taking a punt on someone and developing them into a quality footballer.

The Blades academy has a brilliant reputation throughout football, and has seen England internationals Phil Jagielka and Kyle Walker come through in recent years. Other names such as Kyle Naughton, Harry Maguire, and Billy Sharp have gone to have successful careers too.

While United would obviously like to keep all their players when possible, the restraints of being in League One sometimes take their toll, and they are forced to sell their star names.

The same can be said for this season, where manager Nigel Adkins is trying to shape his squad to mount a promotion bid in the second half of the season. In altering his squad, he may be tempted to cash in on some of Bramall Lanes more valuable assets

Here, I look at THREE players Sheffield United could cash in during January.......

[ffc-gallery]

PRESS THE IMAGE BELOW TO SEE THE 3 PLAYERS!

[/ffc-gallery]

 

Che Adams

An obvious choice, and the one most United fans fear, some expect, to be sold in January.

Adams arrived 18 months ago from non league Ilkeston Town and has gone on to produce performances which have earned rave reviews.

This is has captured the attention of many a suitor, with Man City already taking note.

The young winder is explosive in his acceleration, has the ability to beat his man with ease, and knows exactly where the back of the net is.

A bid in the millions, will definitely tempt Nigel Adkins and his board into selling the young star.

 

George Long

Another product of the United academy, goalkeeper George Long has recently cemented the number 1 position in the team after a half season battle with counterpart Mark Howard.

He has excellent shot stopping ability and for someone of such a young age.

He is still only 22, but already has over 70 appearances to his name for the Blades.

He kept 6 consecutive clean sheets during the 2012/13 season, and has been called up to the England under 21 squad.

Long may well be number 1 at The Lane for now, but should a healthy bid come in for the stopper, it may be that he is moved on so the Blades can strengthen elsewhere.

 

John Brayford

A massive fan favourite at Bramall Lane, renowned for his passionate displays and more often than not looking a class above his teammates, Brayford is the real deal.

He signed for United last season in a £2m deal, a big outlay for a League One club.

While his performances have in the main justified that tag, it is well known he is the top earner at Bramall Lane.

If Adkins could get the same money or more back for the full back, he would clear a big chunk of money off the wage bill, and give himself some funds to play with during the rest of the window.