Sheffield United: Sunderland's interest in Chris Wilder has been encouraged by boardroom issues at Bramall Lane

Stewart Donald, whose proposed takeover of the Wearsiders could shortly be ratified by the English Football League, is evaluating his chances of luring Wilder to the North-East after being encouraged by reports of boardroom unrest at Sheffield United.

Wilder admitted he is seeking dialogue with co-owners HRH Prince Abdullah bin Musa’ad bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Kevin McCabe following last weekend’s game against Preston North End, complaining their battle for sole control has left the club without “harmony”, “direction” and a “plan” to build upon its progress in the Championship this term.

As United prepare for Sunday’s final match of the season at Bristol City, he is still thought to be waiting for any communication to materialise although McCabe did acknowledge the 50-year-old’s concerns during United’s official player of the year awards five day ago.

Wilder, who is contracted to United for another 24 months, delivered the League One title during his first season at Bramall Lane. Despite possessing one of the smallest budgets in the division, his squad reached the top of the table in November and entered their meeting with Preston still boasting a mathematical chance of qualifying for the play-offs.

Meanwhile, United goalkeeper Marcus Dewhurst has been named in the England squad for the forthcoming UEFA U17 Championships.