Sheffield United are favourites to land Southend's Ryan Leonard in Janaury with the midfielder impressed by the persistence that Chris Wilder's men have shown in pursuing him.

Despite having several bids knocked back in the summer for the player, the Blades have still sent a representative to almost every one of his games as they keep an eye on his progress.

That, combined with their lofty league position appears to have ensured Bramall Lane is where Leonard wants to play his football after leaving the League One club according to the Sheffield Star.

The Blades had identified the 25-year old as a key target in the summer but even though he only had a year left on his contract and handed in a transfer request, the Shrimpers refused to sell, wanting to keep the player for a promotion push.

However, they now trail sixth place Charlton Athletic by seven points and with Phil Brown's side down in 12th they may be tempted to cash in on a player they know could walk away on a free in a matter of months.

Wilder will be desperate for a central-midfield player given how his side have struggled since Paul Coutts season-ending injury.

The Verdict

This is a move that would make sense for all concerned. Leonard will be desperate to step up to the Championship and Southend should take a fee whilst they can.

Sheffield United deserve praise for how they've gone about this as their desire to land the player has clearly paid off.

Make no mistake, there would be Championship interest in Leonard but he obviously appreciates how much Chris Wilder and the Blades want to sign him and that will be the key to sealing this transfer.

Thoughts, Blades fans? Let us know in the comments below.