Sheffield United are preparing to offer centre-back Jack O'Connell a new and improved deal as they look to ward off interest from Brighton and Hove Albion, according to Alan Nixon of the Sun

O'Connell played every minute of every Championship game for the Blades last season and was a vital member of their admirable push for the playoffs.

But these performances have attracted increased interest and Chris Wilder is keen to tie the 24-year-old down to a new and improved contract to ward off interested onlookers.

Taking to Twitter, Nixon wrote: "Sheff U. To offer OConnell a contract. Head off Brighton and a couple of others who want him."

O'Connell's current contract does not expire until the summer of 2022 so there is no chance of him leaving for a cut-price deal this summer.

The centre-back moved to Bramall Lane from Brentford in the summer of 2016, a move that has recently been copied by Bees captain John Egan, who joined the Blades last week.

The verdict

Losing O'Connell would be a massive blow to any chance Chris Wilder and his side have of challenging for promotion next season, but with players of his quality, there is always going to be interest.

Having just brought in Egan to shore up the defence, the last thing the club will want to do is be forced to find another top Championship defender.

I feel that unless O'Connell himself is desperate to go then there is little chance he will leave.

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