Leeds poised to complete deal with Andy Lonergan

United are believed to have agreed terms with Lonergan three weeks after first beginning negotiations with the 27-year-old.

Preston accepted an offer of around £200,000 from Leeds at the start of this month, but United suspended their interest in Lonergan after deciding that his initial wage demands were excessive.

The club’s attempt to replace Kasper Schmeichel – sold to Leicester City last month – continued with an approach to take David Stockdale on loan from Fulham, but Fulham’s insistence on a loan fee and a 24-hour recall clause saw United reconsider a deal with Lonergan.

Manager Simon Grayson revealed that a signing was imminent but refused to reveal the identity of his target, saying: “We’re 95 per cent sure of having a signing today.

“We agreed a deal (on Saturday) but until it’s been signed, sealed and delivered, I’m not going to say who it is, what position it is or say that it’s definitely done.

“The player’s agreed to a deal and we should have it finalised today. It’s someone who we think will influence the squad.”