Manchester United goalkeeper Dean Henderson still expects to return to Sheffield United on loan next year after talks with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Henderson, 22, reported at United's Carrington training complex earlier this month and is preparing to spend a second season on loan with the newly-promoted Blades so he can play regular Premier League football.
The United goalkeeping situation still depends on the future of David de Gea, who has received an offer from Paris Saint-Germain. Sources close to De Gea say he intends to have a period of reflection and Henderson is reluctant to leave United on a permanent basis since he believes he could replace De Gea as the first-choice goalkeeper. De Gea's contract expires next year.
United are prepared to run De Gea's contract down to January - when he would be free to negotiate with overseas clubs - in an attempt to secure a long-term deal to keep the Spaniard.
Henderson's United contract also expires next year but the club has the option of an additional year. Championship champions Norwich have expressed interest in signing Henderson permanently as they seek a younger replacement for Tim Krul.
England Under-21 goalkeeper Henderson's representatives held talks with United last month to gauge their plans for next season and United are prepared to negotiate an improved contract with Henderson as part of any arrangement.
United would be ready to ease Henderson into the first-team next term due to the relative serenity of Europa League football, with competition from the 32-year-old Sergio Romero. However, Henderson is insistent on playing consistently in the Premier League to continue his development and force his way into the England national squad.
England coach Gareth Southgate spoke with Henderson earlier this season and assured him he would eventually earn a senior squad call-up. Henderson's elevation to the senior squad has only been delayed in order to allow him to focus on the upcoming U21 European Championship in Italy and San Marino.
Southgate is thought to have reservations about incumbent number one Jordan Pickford's focus and Sheffield United's return to the top flight puts Henderson in a more auspicious position than his competitiors. Number two Jack Butland is still attached to Championship side Stoke and Burnley veteran Tom Heaton recently turned 33.
