Following speculation that newly-promoted Championship outfit Sheffield United had shown an interest in midfielder Ryan Leonard, the Southend United man has stated that he wants to leave the League One side, according to Echo News.

The 25 year-old had reportedly been the subject of bids from both the Blades and fellow second-tier team Millwall, but the duo had their approaches rejected by the Shrimpers.

Leonard has spent the last six years at Roots Hall following his arrival in the summer of 2011, having been released by Plymouth Argyle, and has gone on to rack up just short of 250 appearances for Southend.

The box-to-box midfield man featured in all but three of Phil Brown's side's league matches last term - notching three goals and providing an additional two assists.

Both Sheffield United and the Lions have got their summer recruitment under way; Chris Wilder has added four new faces to his ranks, meanwhile Neil Harris has made two signings already ahead of the official opening of the summer transfer window.

Sheffield United and Millwall fans, what does Ryan Leonard bring to your side? Can he improve your squads or is the midfielder adding to strength in depth? Let us get your thoughts in the comments below!