Sources: Everton ready to accept Mason Holgate offer as Sheffield United make moves for duo
Sheffield United have registered their interest in signing Everton and Nottingham Forest centre-backs Mason Holgate and Joe Worrall, sources have told Football Insider.
It is believed that manager Chris Wilder is eager to add a new centre-back to his defence in January as the Blades bid to avoid relegation.
Well-placed sources have told Football Insider that the duo are his "top two targets" this month and one could be signed before the window closes on 1 February.
Sources told Football Insider last month (11 December) that Everton plan on terminating Holgate's loan at Southampton, meaning he will be available to join a new club this month.
The 27-year-old has had a difficult loan spell in the Championship having made just six appearances for Russell Martin's promotion chasers this season.
However, he could earn a quick return to the Premier League soon if Everton receive an adequate offer from Wilder's side.
Long-time Nottingham Forest servant and captain Worrall started the opening five Premier League games this season but has not made a league start since September.
United currently have the worst defensive record in the league having shipped 51 goals.
They are now prioritising defensive recruitment after signing striker Ben Brenton Diaz on loan from Villarreal earlier his month.
Sources have told Football Insider (20 January) that they are in advanced talks to sign Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Ivo Grbic, who has entered the final six months of his contract.
Sheffield United remain at the foot of the Premier League table despite their late equaliser against West Ham United on Sunday (21 January).
They next face Brighton in the fourth round of the FA Cup at Bramall Lane on Saturday (27 January).
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