Blades’ cachet helped lure new signings

Basham, who played 42 times for Blackpool last term, has signed a three-year deal with Walsall captain Butler penning a two-year contract.

Several Championship clubs were also in the market for Basham, while Doncaster-born Butler was linked with the likes of Bradford City and his home-town club Rovers.

Clough said: “We’re very pleased to get them both because they’re both very experienced.

“There was a lot of interest in Chris.

“He can fill a variety of different roles, but we will look to pin him down to one position and only use him elsewhere in an emergency.

“We’ll see where that is during pre-season and depending on the outcome of other bits of business we are looking to do. But Chris will be in our eleven somewhere.”

Clough, who insisted Butler’s arrival does not alter the situation regarding Wolves target Harry Maguire, added: “He could also have had a shout at Championship level but he knows that we are going to try and have a real go (at promotion) when things get back underway.

“The name of Sheffield United was definitely a factor in getting both of these lads.

“It’s a big draw because of the stature and that definitely helps in situations like this.”

Clough confirmed that utility man Ben Davies has agreed to sign on for next season, with the club expecting a decision from striker Chris Porter, also offered fresh terms, next week.

The Blades’ boss has revealed he is close to another signing and is also hoping to bring in a striker this summer.

Rotherham United have snapped up ex-England Under-21 goalkeeper Scott Loach on a two-year deal and the former Ipswich player will compete with Adam Collin for the No 1 jersey next season.

Millers’ manager Steve Evans said: “Adam knows we were in the market to sign another top-class goalkeeper and privately he knew that was Scott Loach.”