Although it is hardly a secret, the Blades boss publicly conceded his interest to fans attending the United open day at Bramall Lane.

Carney is currently on his way to Yorkshire in a bid to impress the Blades and earn a deal.

He is no stranger to the north of England of course, having been on the books of Everton, Oldham Athletic and Halifax Town respectively.

Robson had been keen to keep his transfer targets under wraps but with the news having leaked out, both Carney and Everton’s James Beattie have been confirmed as targets.

Beattie has fallen down the pecking order at Goodison Park and he could be the man Carney will be looking to supply ammunition for – should he make the switch to England.

Carney, who had earlier been a target for United’s city rivals Sheffield Wednesday, has been granted permission to go to the UK to open negotiations with the Blades, despite signing a new two year contract only a matter of weeks ago.

With the transfer deadline looming, the club still has no marquee signing and has conceded six goals in its last two games without Mark Milligan in defence.