Sheffield United are reportedly targeting AFC Bournemouth forward Jermain Defoe on a six-month loan deal, according to reports from The Sun on Sunday.

The Blades had been linked with the experienced 36-year old a month ago, with the former England international frozen out by the South Coast club having made just seven appearances for the Cherries this term.

With just a year left on his contract at the Vitality Stadium, he seemingly isn't in Eddie Howe's plans, and they could look to offload him sooner rather than later, with the Blades keen admirers of the veteran forward.

Reports have surfaced from The Sun that Chris Wilder could look to target Defoe on a six-month loan deal which would finish at the end of this season.

Having made over 500 appearances in the top flight, Defoe would add experience, knowhow and a touch of class to the United front-line, and with the Blades sitting just inside the playoff places, he could be the perfect addition to spearhead them up the Sky Bet Championship table.

United currently occupy the final playoff place in the second tier on goal difference, after a 1-0 defeat to Yorkshire rivals Leeds United at the weekend.

The Verdict

This could be final piece of the jigsaw for the Blades. Defoe would obviously cost a lot in terms of wages, but he is an experienced forward who obviously knows where the goal is. Do they really need him though? They have the likes of Billy Sharp who has been on fire this term, as well as Leon Clarke and David McGoldrick who have scored their fair share of goals this term. It's an interesting one.