Sheffield United are reportedly working on the signing of Tom Lawrence, who has left Derby County as a free agent this summer. 

Lawrence's contract has expired with the Rams and he has not agreed new terms after their relegation to League One.

It appears the Blades are keen to offer him a route back to the Championship as Yorkshire Live has reported that they're trying to bring him to Bramall Lane.

United have already signed Adam Davies and Tommy Doyle this summer while a deal for Anel Ahmedhodzic is thought to be close but the Yorkshire club are working on more transfers.

Lawrence is among those with Paul Heckingbottom said to be hoping that things can progress quickly enough to allow the forward to link up with the first team squad on their pre-season camp in Portugal.

The 28-year-old was the Rams' key attacking force last term, scoring more goals (11) and providing more assists (five) than any other player in the squad – including bagging a brace in the 2-0 win against United in January.

West Bromwich Albion were linked with a move for the Welshman earlier in the window but that pursuit appears to have gone quiet since the signing of Jed Wallace.

The Verdict

Signing Lawrence on a free transfer would be a smart bit of business for United.

He's a proven quantity in the Championship and should provide Heckingbottom with a reliable option in forward areas.

You have to feel that with better players around him at Bramall Lane, he can improve on last season's offering but even if he can't around 20 goal contributions in 2022/23 would make him a real asset.

West Brom were linked earlier in the summer but it seems the path is now open for the Blades to get a deal done.