Liverpool defender Ben Davies is edging nearer to a season-long loan with Sheffield United.
But the Championship side will be have no option to buy as the Reds look to keep their options open regarding the future of the centre-back.
Davies has yet to feature for Jurgen Klopp's since being snapped up from Preston North End midway through last season in response to Liverpool's injury crisis in defence.
With Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip now available and £36million Ibrahima Konate on board, Davies has been made available.
Celtic, Bournemouth and Burnley have been interested in the 26-year-old.
But the persistence of Sheffield United boss Slavisa Jokanovic has meant Bramall Lane has always seemed the more likely destination.
Should the deal be finalised, the Blades will pay Liverpool a loan fee.
And they will also have to hand over a promotion bonus if they return to the Premier League this term.
Davies has featured on the bench eight times for the Reds, the most recent being the 1-1 draw at Leeds United in April.
He made his first Anfield outing as a late substitute in last Monday's 3-1 friendly win over Osasuna.
