Paul Heckingbottom's transfer priorities and where Sheffield United are looking to strengthen

Sheffield United manager Paul Heckingbottom has identified 'six or seven' positions in his squad that need filling for next season. The Blades boss is keen to hold on to the majority of his players remaining from the 2021-22 campaign and add to it for another promotion push.

Having got off to a slow start last season that left them having to play catch up, he is understandably keen to have a good summer in terms of getting recruitment right. He will look to use his budget as best he can and has not ruled out some of those positions being filled with players from the club's academy.

Here is a look at where his priorities are within the squad and the options he has available.

One of the positions in need of filling is a second goalkeeper to provide competition and cover to Wes Foderingham. United have offered a contract to Adam Davies, who joined on a short-term deal after leaving Stoke in January.

If he puts pen to paper on that offer to remain at Bramall Lane, that will be one of the positions taken care of without the need to recruit.

"We do need a goalkeeper," Heckingbottom admitted to Yorkshire Live before he went on holiday. "Whether it's Davo [Adam Davies] or someone else."

However, if Davies, who has been on international duty with Wales and was an unused substitute as they qualified for the World Cup last week, decides against taking up the option, the Sheffield United recruitment team will need to act.

Man City goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu has emerged as a possible loan target this week, a situation where United are likely to have touched base with the Premier League side in case Davies leaves. However, reports of a £10m bid from Southampton could see them have to look elsewhere if needed.

United have been light