Sheffield United are moving ever closer to sealing a controversial move for Cardiff City striker Gary Madine.

The Blades are in the market for a new forward, and according to Sky Sports, are nearing a deal for Madine after the big striker passed his medical at Bramall Lane today.

Madine's rumoured move to the Blades has caused quite the stir among home fans, who are not too keen on the striker following his spell with Sheffield Wednesday a few years back some off field issues which directly involved both United fans and players.

However, manager Chris Wilder appears to have no thought for that, and has identified Madine as someone who can come in and make a difference for his side as he looks to get them into the top two in the next few months.

Madine moved to Cardiff last season in a big money move after impressing for Bolton Wanderers in the early part of the campaign, although he is yet to score for his new club and has not featured during their Premier League campaign thus far.

United take on Barnet in the FA Cup today, with Madine expected to be unveiled as a United player later today.

The Verdict

It was always going to cause a stir this, but Chris Wilder deserves to have the right to sign who he sees fit.

The Blades boss has a habit of getting the best out of his players, and if he can Madine fit and firing, then United might well have a quality addition on their hands.

United fans will be hoping Madine proves them wrong and fires them to Championship glory.