Blades face De Laet battle

Skysports.com understands a host of Championship clubs are hoping to lure loan star Ritchie de Laet away from Sheffield United.

De Laet's month-long loan spell at Bramall Lane is close to expiring and a number of sides are eagerly monitoring developments.

Blades boss Gary Speed has expressed a desire to extend De Laet's stay in South Yorkshire with the young defender impressing at the club.

However, several of United's Championship rivals are ready to enter the race to sign the young Belgian.

Some of the interested parties are believed to have contacted United boss Sir Alex Ferguson about a loan deal and he is yet to decide where to loan out De Laet so that he can continue his development.