Morgan is hailed as true 'Bladesman' after signing new deal

Morgan, 32, has spent the last seven years with the Blades, who took up an option to extend his contract for 12 months towards the end of last season.

After expressing a desire to stay at Bramall Lane for the rest of his career and, amid interest from Leeds, the Blades have come up with a new package.

Blades chief executive Trevor Birch said: "This is a vitally important signing for us because Chris – to many players and fans – embodies the spirit of the Blades and is a reassuring and inspirational figure out on the pitch.

"Chris is a 'Bladesman' through and through and, whilst we were willing to insert a coaching clause in the contract, Chris felt he wanted to maximise his playing opportunities for as long as possible. Add to that his tireless work in the community and you have someone who is an absolute credit to Sheffield United."

The Blades are still in talks with midfield player Nick Montgomery, who is out of contract and wanted by Leeds, goalkeeper Paddy Kenny, whose current deal expires next summer, and Scottish international Gary Naysmith, who is willing to take a pay cut to stay at Bramall Lane after 12 months on the sidelines with a knee injury.

Birch said: "We remain hopeful that our talks with other Blades stalwarts result in them staying on and helping 'Morgs' form a familiar, formidable core to the squad over the next few years."

Maltese international striker Daniel Bogdanovic is also expected to join the Blades next week after being released by Barnsley.

LEEDS UNITED'S Max Gradel will miss the first four games of next season following his red card in the final-day promotion-clinching win over Bristol Rovers.

The 22-year-old was sent off for violent conduct after stamping on Rovers' left-back Dan Jones, an offence that normally incurs a three-game ban.

Gradel has been handed an additional game for refusing to leave the pitch after being dismissed by Graham Salisbury.