Sheffield United looked like they were heading for a spot in the play-offs for much of this season but they now face an uphill struggle to get into the top six.

The Blades, led by Chris Wilder, have exceeded expectations to steer themselves well clear of the drop zone having only just come up from the third tier and if they fail to reach the play-off zone this year, the hope is that it has just set a platform for progress next season.

Four points separate the Blades from Derby County in the race for the top six with just two games remaining this season and their ambitions were dealt a blow last weekend with a defeat at St Andrew's against Birmingham City.

When the season is over, Wilder will sit down and consider some transfer options to bolster his squad with free agents likely to be on his radar.

Here are six soon-to-be free agents for Sheffield United to consider signing this summer.

Sheffield United will need a new goalkeeper in the summer when Jamal Blackman heads back to Chelsea from his loan spell.

The Blades should make an ambitious bid for Brighton's 30-year-old stopper Tim Krul.

The Netherlands international has played most of his career at Newcastle United and he still has plenty to offer at Championship level.

West Brom are looking certain to be relegated from the Premier League this season and they might want to keep James Morrison at the club.

But Sheffield United should definitely offer him a contract if he becomes available on a free.

The Scotland international is an experienced midfielder who very rarely has a bad game.

Walsall star Erhun Oztumer is unlikely to pen a new deal with the League One club as a number of Championship clubs lurk for a bargain.

Known as the "Turkish Messi", the diminutive 5ft 3in midfielder has scored 14 goals and added seven assists for the Saddlers in League One this season.

The 26-year-old would add a real creative spark to Sheffield United's midfield next term.

With Birmingham set to release David Davis, this would be an excellent addition for most Championship clubs.

The 27-year-old is able to do the defensive duties required in his central midfield role but is also comfortable carrying the ball forward and starting attacks.

Davis would provide strength in depth to the midfield ranks.

Jordan Graham suffered a horrible injury two years ago and has not been the same player since he returned from his lay-off.

But the 23-year-old just needs a new home to settle into and get back to his best.

Wolves will probably not renew his contract but the winger can offer blistering pace, deceptive skill and end product when on form.

This signing would be a bit of a gamble but Dieumerci Mbokani has been quite impressive in the past when playing in England.

The 32-year-old hit seven goals in 15 starts for Norwich in the top flight, although he failed to replicate his form while at Hull the following year.

Mbokani has three goals in four European games this season and would be a strong and physical centre forward for Sheffield United to consider.