Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder is in the market to improve his squad when the transfer window opens for business next month, and today confirmed to journalist Andy Giddings that talks are ongoing over a deal for Southend’s Ryan Leonard.

The 25-year-old has impressed for the Shrimpers since joining the club in 2011, and could finally be about to earn a move to the Championship.

Wilder is in the market for a central midfielder following Paul Coutts’ injury, and has identified Leonard as the man to replace the crocked Scot.

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The Blades’ form has dived since the 29-year-old was sidelined, and Wilder will hope the introduction of Leonard will add the quality to the midfield his side have lacked since Coutts’ lay-off.

Wilder confirmed Leonard would be the only permanent signing of the window, but also expressed a desire to explore the loan market in the new year.

Fans took to Twitter to have their say on Wilder’s winter plans…