West Ham United were interested in signing Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge during the January transfer window, according to Norwegian journalist Arilas Ould-Saada.

Berge's future has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks, with many clubs linked with a move as the clock ticked down on the window.

Reports over the weekend suggested Fulham were leading the race for the 24-year-old after holding talks, but the Cottagers were not the only Premier League side to be credited with an interest. Newcastle United, Liverpool and Chelsea were all thought to be keen, as well as Italian outfit Napoli.

But Berge remains at Bramall Lane following the closure of the window, with the Blades refusing to consider offers for the Norwegian or team-mate Iliman Ndiaye on deadline day, with both players happy to stay in South Yorkshire.

However, further details have emerged of the events of the past month, with Ould-Saada revealing that Fulham had offered Berge a long-term contract, but that it was Newcastle who were the closest to landing his signature, while West Ham United were also among his suitors.

"Fulham put a 4.5-year contract on the table and negotiated with Sheffield United. They did not agree on a transfer fee or personal terms," Ould-Saada said, as quoted by Yorkshire Live.

"Newcastle were the closest on deadline day with a loan to buy and West Ham also wanted Berge."

Berge has scored four goals and registered three assists in 19 appearances for Paul Heckingbottom's men this season, with the Blades currently sitting second in the Championship table, 12 points clear of third-placed Middlesbrough.

The verdict

Sheffield United did incredibly well to hold on to Berge in January.

Given the seemingly widespread interest in his services, the Blades should be commended for taking a strong stance and not allowing one of their star man to depart, particularly as they would have been unable to replace him due to their transfer embargo.

It is interesting that Newcastle were the front runners on deadline day and a move to St James' Park could have been an attractive proposition with the Magpies looking on course to secure Champions League football next season.

But it a testament to the Blades and Heckingbottom's project that Berge was happy to remain at Bramall Lane and the player should also be credited for maintaining his professionalism and not allowing his head to be turned.