Sunderland, Anderlecht and Blackburn Rovers miss out on Premier League attacker

Sunderland had also been linked with an agreement for the attacker, with Blackburn Rovers and Anderlecht also said to be interested. The Black Cats missed out on Troy Parrott on Monday with the striker moving to Preston North End.

But Sheffield United have won sign Khadra in another transfer blow to the Wearsiders and their chances of securing another attacker before Sunday’s opening day clash against Coventry City.

The 21-year-old spent the last season on loan with Blackburn scoring five goals and registering four assists in 27 appearances.

The Black Cats have so far concluded permanent deals for Leon Dajaku, Dan Ballard, Aji Alese and Jack Clarke and have also secured the long-term futures of Lynden Gooch, Bailey Wright and Patrick Roberts.

Sunderland are understood to have contacted Everton regarding a potential Wearside return for Nathan Broadhead and were thought to have multiple attacking irons in the fire after identifying Khadra and Parrott for potential loan deals this summer. However, both targets have slipped through the net.

Speaking upon securing the deal, Blades boss and ex-Sunderland man Paul Heckingbottom remarked: "This is a deal that has taken a while, there has been lots of ups and downs. But we've managed to get him in on loan which is great for us and Reda is just as excited as we are.

"We spoke with Brighton about Reda a long time ago and that pleased him, when he spoke to us he knew he wanted to come here and it has been a case of remaining patient whilst a deal was agreed between the clubs. He is different to a lot of players we've got, he's naturally very direct and has explosive pace which Blades fans will have noted from playing against us last season."

Khadra added: "I'm really happy to be here now and I just can't wait to get started and playing in front of the fans. The atmosphere at Bramall Lane was the best I experienced in the Championship last season and I'm excited by this opportunity.

"I sensed the fans were right behind the team and obviously I scored on my first start for Blackburn Rovers against the Blades at Ewood Park. I'm already looking forward to Monday's game at Watford."