McCall did ground work then Wilson ensured Murphy opted to join Blades

Murphy, 23, rebuffed interest from Rangers, Hull City, Huddersfield Town and Burnley to join Danny Wilson’s League One promotion chasers in a £100,000 move from Motherwell, signing a three-and-a-half year deal.

Murphy, who has struck 11 goals in 28 games for the Steelmen this term, said: ”I had been aware for a few weeks that United were watching me and as soon as I spoke to Danny Wilson they were always my first choice.

“He really sold the club to me when I came down for my medical on Monday. But I had already heard so many good things about the club from Stuart McCall.

“Stuart had a great time at Bramall Lane as a player and then coach, and he couldn’t speak highly enough of them.

“After 11 years at Motherwell it was, of course, a big decision for me to leave Glasgow and move to England. But I know it is the right move for me because United are a good team with good players.

“I want to play in the Premier League and get into the Scotland squad, and I believe I can fulfil those ambitions with Sheffield United.”

Manchester United have recalled John Cofie from his loan spell with the Blades.