Middlesbrough are open to selling Marvin Johnson on a permanent basis to Sheffield United, if the Blades are keen on bringing him on a long-term deal.

The 28-year-old arrived at Bramall Lane in the summer on a season-long loan but has struggled to make a positive impact.

So far, Johnson has made just seven appearances for his new club, with six of those coming from the bench, as Enda Stevens is the first choice left wing-back for Chris Wilder.

It's fair to say he has underwhelmed in that time too, with Johnson not convincing supporters when he has featured.

And, the Sheffield Star have revealed how Boro are hopeful that the Blades will pursue a permanent transfer for the player in the upcoming windows.

Obviously, there's no rush to do a deal on Sheffield United's behalf but we think they should steer clear entirely.

Here we look at THREE alternatives they should be lining up to provide competition at left wing-back...

With Ryan Bertrand ahead of him at Southampton, game time is going to be extremely hard to come by for Targett who needs to be playing regularly.

That would be the case at Bramall Lane, with the 23-year-old already proven at this level having impressed at Fulham last season as they won promotion.

He would be an ambitious signing but one that shows the Blades mean business.

One player who could do a short-term job is Oviedo.

Sunderland would be keen to move on the Costa Rica international as he will be commanding a decent wage for the third tier.

However, he has shown this season he can still play a part and would bring experience and know-how to the side.

Another option for the Blades would be Leeds United's Pearce.

The youngster, who loves to get forward, was a real positive for the Whites last season as he broke into the first-team.

But, he is not a favourite under Marcelo Bielsa, who rarely uses the left-sider, and Wilder could be the ideal manager to help Pearce fulfil his potential.

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