Sheffield United will be joined by eight other teams in the race to sign Anderlecht midfielder Josh Cullen, according to reports in England.

The Blades will be vying for the Irishman’s signature, along with Fulham, Norwich, Burnley, Southampton, Leeds, Wolves, Crystal Palace and his former club West Ham.

Cullen was brought to Anderlecht by former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany, who now manages the Belgian club, and the player has been a first-team starter over the past two campaigns.

The 25-year-old’s performances have also led to him playing regularly for the Republic of Ireland, with the midfielder now having accumulated 16 caps.

Cullen generally plays as a holding midfield player and he would probably be a replacement for Sander Berge, who only a few weeks ago refused to rule out leaving Bramall Lane. The Norwegian has been linked with moves to Premier League teams, as well as clubs in Italy, but those rumours have died down in recent months. We shall see if Cullen’s arrival is tied to the United star’s departure.