Sheffield United are reportedly interested in signing AC Milan forward Divock Origi as the Blades look to bolster their attacking ranks this summer.
The 28-year-old made the switch to Italy from Liverpool before the 2022-23 term, however the Belgium international has struggled to cement his spot as a regular starter.
Origi featured 27 times in Serie A for Milan last term, although 17 of those appearances came off the bench for a side who finished fourth in the Italian top flight.
The attacker won cult-hero status during his spell at Anfield, most notably for his goals in the Reds' run to Champions League glory in 2019 under Jurgen Klopp.
According to The Sun, Origi could be set for a return to the Premier League following a year's absence, with top-flight newcomers Sheffield United keen on the striker.
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It is understood that the Blades are hoping to recruit the Belgian on a loan deal for the 2023-24 term, as they aim to avoid an immediate return to the Championship.
The report claims that Origi has been informed that he does not fit into Stefano Pioli's plans at San Siro this season, meaning that he is free to find a move elsewhere in what remains of this summer window.
Paul Heckingbottom's side are reportedly not alone in their interest for the attacker, with Saudi Pro League club Al Fateh said to be looking to lure the 28-year-old to the Middle East.
Currently managed by former Watford and West Bromwich Albion manager Slaven Bilic, Al Fateh have made an impressive start to the Pro League campaign, earning four points from their opening two matches against Al-Taawoun and Al Okhdood.
The Blades have been unable to collect any points from their first two contests of the Premier League term, losing at Bramall Lane to Crystal Palace on August 12 before suffering a defeat against Nottingham Forest on Friday night.
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Heckingbottom's men have scored just once in 180 minutes of football so far this season, and the 46-year-old is fully aware that his side need additions in attacking areas before September 1.
Benie Traore and youngster Will Osula have carried the offensive burden for United in the opening weeks of the campaign, with last season's topscorer Iliman Ndiaye moving to Marseille for around £20m in pre-season.
The Senegal international netted 14 goals and provided 10 assists in 46 Championship matches for the promotion-winning Blades - a record which was enough to earn him an attractive switch to the South of France.
Sheffield United will be hoping to have added some more firepower in forward areas by the time that current champions Manchester City visit Bramall Lane next Sunday, when the Blades face a tough task to avoid three straight defeats at the start the new season.
Carter White
