Sources: Sheffield United in advanced talks to sign Jordan Ayew

Sheffield United are in advanced talks to sign former Leicester City forward Jordan Ayew, sources have told Football Insider.

The 34-year-old is a free agent after leaving Leicester following their relegation to League One, and has been eyed by a number of Championship clubs as a result.

Chris Wilder's side have now moved ahead of their rivals in their pursuit of Ayew, who has held talks at their Shireclffe training ground in recent days.

However, Sheffield United need to move a player out before they can sign the Ghana international, casting doubt over whether they will get the deal over the line.

Ayew made 45 appearances for Leicester last season, scored six goals and provided three assists, with his work rate also having been highlighted as a key asset.

Since he became available as a free agent, he has attracted interest from clubs across Europe, but the opportunity to return to the Championship is an attractive proposition.

Why do Sheffield United want to sign Jordan Ayew?

Football Insider revealed on 15 August that Ayew was part of an exodus at Leicester City as they aimed to clear his wages from the books to avoid financial rule breaches.

However, before their relegation from the Championship, he played a big role in their side with his experience and know-how providing a key asset to their squad.

Sheffield United's interest has emerged largely thanks to his reputation as a hard-worker and his experience both in the Championship and the Premier League.

Ayew made over 200 appearances for Crystal Palace in the top flight before leaving in 2024, and that experience is seen as a valuable asset by Wilder.

The boss is determined to strengthen his squad, even following the close of the transfer window, with Ayew's ability to play out wide and up front making him an interesting option.

Which positions have been a priority for Chris Wilder?

Sheffield United's pursuit of Ayew comes after they spent the summer attempting to strengthen in a number of key areas amid concerns about their squad depth.

Football Insider exclusively revealed on 28 August that Ben Brereton Diaz was set to join the Blades on loan from Southampton after undergoing a medical.

His arrival was targeted as Wilder moved to add more depth to his forward line, with concerns about their goalscoring record in the early stages of the season.

Their efforts to sign Ayew will also come as part of their attempts to strengthen going forward, and if they can pull off his signing, he will be a valuable addition.

The former Leicester man can cover a number of attacking positions, with their wide depth emerging as a concern in recent weeks.