Sheffield United boost intake with double signing as manager Chris Wilder eyes further signings

Left-sided centre-half O’Connell, who spent a previous brief spell on loan in South Yorkshire at Rotherham United, has signed for an undisclosed fee, while ex-Glasgow Rangers player Fleck has signed a three-year deal after turning down a new offer with the Sky Blues and options in the Championship.

O’Connell’s capture follows on from the arrival of ex-Oldham Athletic defender James Wilson, with the Blades also endeavouring to sign MK Dons centre-back Kyle McFadzean to add to their back four options.

Liverpool-born O’Connell was signed by ex-Bees chief Mark Warburton in February 2015 and made 18 appearances for the Bees in all competitions last term.

The versatile defender, who can operate at centre-back or left-back, has racked up over 100 senior starts, the majority of which came during highly successful loan spells with Rochdale.

On the signing of O’Connell, 22, an ex-England U19 international, Blades manager Chris Wilder said: “I’m delighted that the board have backed this signing because Jack is an exciting talent.

“He’s young, hungry and has a considerable number of games under his belt at a good level, considering his age.

“We are delighted and we are still working on getting one or two more into the building.”

And on Fleck, 24, Wilder added: “John is an outstanding midfield player in League One and we believe he can play at a higher level.

“He is another to have contract options and we are delighted to get him to Bramall Lane as he is athletic, hungry, a great age and fits the structure of the players we want to represent the club.”

The arrival of the duo follows on from the signings of Wilson, Bury full-back Chris Hussey and Burton winger Mark Duffy.