24-year-old Midfielder Linked to Blades as Standout Youngster Could Face Exit

Sheffield United’s January transfer window is beginning to take shape, with several credible rumours emerging as the Blades look to strengthen key areas ahead of the second half of the Championship season.

One of the more advanced links involves Marc Leonard, who has been informed he can leave Birmingham City this month. According to Birmingham Live, Sheffield United and Norwich City are among the Championship clubs monitoring the 24-year-old midfielder. He has played 15 games in the Championship this term, but only five of them have been starts,

Leonard has quietly built a strong reputation as a reliable, tactically intelligent central midfielder. Comfortable operating as a box-to-box or as part of a double pivot, he offers a blend of ball retention and off the ball discipline.

The Blades have been stretched in midfield in recent weeks due to the injuries to Sydie Peck, Tom Davies and Jamie Shackleton. Meanwhile, Alex Matos has reportedly been deemed unwanted by Chris Wilder and could move on this month. The addition of Marc Leonard could be a smart signing for depth.

Defensive Additions

In defence, Sheffield United are reportedly one of several clubs tracking Luke Graham, the 21-year-old Dundee centre-back, alongside Queens Park Rangers and Portsmouth, per Daily Record.

Graham is viewed as a modern, physically capable centre-half with strong aerial presence. Standing at over 6ft2, he has averaged close to four aerial duels won per match in the Scottish Premiership, an important metric for a Sheffield United side that has frequently looked shaky at defending crosses and set pieces in the Championship this term.

Given Ben Mee’s age and the long-term uncertainty around defensive depth with loan players such as Tyler Bindon, Graham would likely be viewed as a developmental signing; one who could be eased into the squad while learning from experienced Championship defenders.

Oné to Watch on Loan?

Meanwhile, Ryan Oné is attracting interest from Rotherham United, who see the Sheffield United forward as one of their main January targets. The Rotherham Advertiser reports that contact has already been made between the two clubs regarding a potential loan move.

Oné is highly regarded internally for his physical profile and work rate, but first-team opportunities have been limited this season despite being a standout in pre-season. To add, the young Scotsman can play down the left or down the right as well as straight down the middle.