Sheffield United are close to signing Ryan Leonard after the player agreed personal terms ahead of his move from Southend United, according to Sky Sports News.

Sky sources understand that Ryan Leonard held talks with Sheffield United on Friday night and his representatives have come to an agreement over wages.

This means that it is only a matter of time before Sheffield United wrap this deal up after a £700,000 bid was accepted by Southend.

With less than six months left on his contract at Roots Hall, Southend are keen to cash in on the central midfielder rather than lose him for free in the summer.

The former Plymouth Argyle midfielder came through the ranks with the Pilgrims before making the switch to Essex in 2011.

He has since played over 250 times for Southend in a fine spell with the club.

The 25-year-old was a major target for Sheffield United in the summer transfer window but Southend continued to turn offers down.

But it looks like Chris Wilder is finally going to land his long term target as Leonard edges closer and closer to his switch to Sheffield United.

The only thing standing between Leonard and the completion of this move is a medical - which he is expected to undergo on Monday.

The Verdict

Given their injury concerns, the arrival of Ryan Leonard will be welcome.

At £700,000, they are landing a top performing League One midfielder who will be keen to impress at a higher standard.

In the long term, this could be a very shrewd move for the Blades as they continue to seek promotion to the top flight.

Sheff Utd fans - Would you pleased with this signing? Let us know below...