Sheffield United have had a bid of around £700,000 rejected by Southend United for midfielder Ryan Leonard.

The Blades made a big push for the 25-year old in the summer, but the Shrimpers held firm despite the fact that Leonard was approaching the last year of his contract.

And, even though the player has made it clear he won't be signing a new contract at Roots Hall, Southend are determined to keep him for the remainder of the season.

The club are aware that Leonard will walk away on a free in the summer but they had hoped that he could help them return to the Championship before he left, which is why they rejected the latest offer according to the Southend Echo.

As it stands, Phil Brown's men are seven points away from the final position and are currently languishing down in ninth position.

Yet, Sheffield United's need for a midfielder has grown considerably with the news that Paul Coutts will miss the rest of the season after breaking his leg against Burton Albion recently.

The Verdict

Southend's stance is admirable but you have to wonder how long they will stand by it. At the end of the day money talks and if the Blades come back in with an offer that hits seven figures it will be hard to turn it down.

The importance of Leonard to the Shrimpers cannot be underestimated but they have a lot of work to do to make the top six this season, so it makes it tougher to turn down these offers.

As for Sheffield United, Leonard is a player Wilder clearly rates and they are desperate for a midfielder in his mould, so they will be doing all they can to convince Southend to sell.

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