Sheffield United 'confident' of beating Sunderland to the signing of £2m-rated star

Reports earlier this week claimed Lee Johnson’s side had a £1million bid rejected for the 21-year-old, with the Premier League club asking for double of what was initially offered.

Sanderson impressed on loan at the Stadium of Light last season – appearing 26 times in League One before sitting out the final few months with injury.

The Black Cats are likely to table a second offer for the centre-back but according to the Sheffield Star, the Blades are convinced they can win the race should they make their move.

Although no official talks between United and Wolves have yet taken place, a negotiator granted permission to act on the South Yorkshire club’s behalf is in contact with senior figures at Molineux.

With Sunderland stepping up their efforts to sign Sanderson permanently, Slavisa Jokanovic’s side are being encouraged to submit an offer of their own.

It is claimed Sanderson’s representatives are reluctant to make any firm commitments about his client’s future until later in the window.

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Newcastle United coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription; sign up here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor