Sheffield United are heavily interested in signing Southampton striker Sam Gallagher, according to Alan Nixon, a journalist for the Sun. 

The 21-year-old spent last season on loan at Birmingham City and impressed with the limited game time he got from the bench, scoring six goals.

Chris Wilder will be keen to build on his side's performance last season as they pushed admirably for the play-offs on their first season back in the Championship.

Signing a striker to take the responsibility away from Leon Clarke who scored 19 goals last season for the Blades.

Writing on Twitter, Nixon said: "Sheff U. Deffo keen on Sam Gallagher. But that's an expensive deal...even on loan."

It is not clear yet whether Wilder wants bring Gallagher in on a loan or on a permanent deal.

The 21-year-old came through the youth ranks at Plymouth Argyle and then at Southampton, before enjoying loan spells at MK Dons, Blackburn Rovers and Birmingham.

The verdict

Whether Gallagher is the right man for the job remains to be seen, but it is encouraging to see that Chris Wilder is looking to bring in more striking talent.

First choice strikers Billy Sharpe and Leon Clarke are both in their 30s so it is vital that they find some younger blood to help with the scoring duties.

Gallagher definitely fits the bill.