There remains a myriad of possibilities with so many moves dependent on others as clubs line up replacements before parting with players.

Blades fans can rest assured that several new arrivals will follow the early signings of Lee Williamson and Kyel Reid. But timing can be crucial and Blackwell is racing the clock in an attempt to gather his targets soon enough for a meaningful pre-season with the rest of his squad. And at this stage it looks as if his preparations will be hampered by a sandwiching of late business.

Continuing interest in Bristol City's former Doncaster midfielder Michael McIndoe is perhaps the firmest lead at this stage with a deal very much on the cards.

Elsewhere, United's bid for Southampton's Andrew Surman has collapsed as the young star has signed for Premiership newcomers Wolves.

Moves for a striker are always the most complex, not to say the most expensive. Manchester City are playing hardball over long-time target Ched Evans who is thought to favour a move to Bramall Lane but is subject to a price tag rising to £2m.

This has re-opened the possibility of further talks over Jermaine Beckford of Leeds, who are keen on Billy Sharp in exchange. If Sharp left, the Blades would be seeking two strikers rather than one.

Underlying it all is the pursuit - by Manchester City, apparently, as well as Aston Villa and Everton - of Bramall Lane's prized asset, Kyle Naughton. It would be stretching the imagination to think that a large bid won't be tabled some time this summer.

Naughton is clearly United's cash backstop allowing them to spend up front - but only if the money is irresistible.

The same could be said to apply to Matthew Kilgallon, although he is far less expendable in the wider scheme of things.

Reluctant as United would be to part with Naughton, they have cover in the full-back positions with Gary Naysmith and Derek Geary on the way back to fitness and Kyle Walker having settled in impressively on the right.

Blackwell is far less insured at centre back, particularly following Ugo Ehiogu's release. You sense that, far from weakening that area, the Blades boss would like to strengthen it - though he is concentrating on midfield after taking experienced wideman Glen Little on trial.

Meanwhile, talks on Gary Speed's future are imminent now that he has missed out on a move into management at Swansea. Speed's recent plea for a longer coaching contract at Bramall Lane will be in play, dependent on the outcome of his bid to prolong his remarkable playing career.


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