Sheffield United named as 'admirers' of Cardiff City star Cian Ashford as Bluebirds stance outlined
Sheffield United have been named as admirers of Cardiff City winger Cian Ashford.
Bluebirds boss Brian Barry-Murphy has placed plenty of faith in youth this season and Ashford is among those who have benefited.
The 21-year-old has made 30 appearances in all competitions this term, registering four goals and three assists.
He has been a bright spark for the Bluebirds, who sit top of League One and appear destined for a return to the Championship.
Sheffield United linked with Cardiff City star
According to Wales Online, Sheffield United have taken notice of Ashford’s talent and potential.
It has been suggested the Blades are admirers of the Wales Under-21s international, although signing him could prove tricky.
Cardiff are said to have adopted a firm stance over their young assets, with the club wanting to keep their youthful core together,
It therefore appears unlikely Ashford will be prised from the Welsh capital without the payment of a significant fee.
Sheffield United shuffling the pack
Sheffield United endured a dismal start to the season under Ruben Selles and Chris Wilder is still in the rebuild process.
The mid-season window is not often used for overhauls but Wilder appears set on reshaping his squad.
He has made no secret of his desire to strengthen but has remained coy regarding the specifics of transfer dealings.
Last week, he said: “We'd like to bring a couple of players into the group, as I've said all along and been consistent with, to improve us for the second part of the season.
"I can't commit to names and speculation. We could sit here for the next 10-15 minutes and just go through the ‘dance’, but that's how it is.
"But, as I've always said, until they've got a Sheffield United shirt on and a scarf around their neck... Honestly, we've lost so many players and we do through situations where people catch onto stuff. We have to work so hard right the way through it.”