Blades close on McDonald

McDonald: Midfielder is expected to agree a contract to join Sheffield United on a free transfer

Sheffield United manager Danny Wilson has confirmed the club are close to finalising a deal to sign midfielder Kevin McDonald.

The 22-year-old was released by Burnley at the end of last season and he has been training with the Blades in the hope of earning a contract.

There were concerns whether McDonald would fit within the League One club's budget, but Wilson is optimistic of adding the Scot to his squad.

"Kevin has bent a little and it's also down to the owner too," Wilson told the Sheffield Star.

"Nothing is sorted out yet and we might be being a little premature but hopefully we'll be able to get something done.

"I don't think he (plc chairman Kevin McCabe) will be making a habit of doing this because there are budgets which, quite rightly, we have to try and adhere too. But there has been movement.

"Fair play to Kevin. He's shown a commitment to being here because I know he could easily have gone and found himself another club."