Sheffield United are preparing for another season in the Championship following a poor second year.

The Blades advanced to the play-off final a year ago, but finished 13th this season.

Chris Wilder’s side were 13 points behind sixth-place Hull City, who won promotion to the Premier League with a 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough at Wembley Stadium.

Sheffield United will be looking to close the gap with the top teams this summer by upgrading their first-team squad through the transfer market.

The Yorkshire club may have a busy few months ahead of them as they seek to re-enter the promotion race.

The Championship side will benefit from the expansion of the play-offs to include the top eight teams starting next season.

Sheffield United’s Kalvin Phillips talks.

According to Sky Sports, Sheffield United has begun talks with Manchester City about extending Kalvin Phillips’ loan.

With the midfielder’s contract still valid for two years, it is assumed that any arrangement will result in another temporary term.

Phillips joined for the Premier League club in the 2022 transfer window for £45 million, but he has struggled for playing time in the intervening four years.

The 30-year-old spent the second part of the season on loan with Sheffield United, but only appeared three times in the Championship owing to injuries and suspension.

However, Wilder is eager to get him back to Bramall Lane for next season, and another loan is now being considered.

Sheffield United have already decided not to renew Jairo Riedewald’s contract beyond the summer, which surprised many fans.

However, if a deal can be reached with Manchester City to bring Phillips back to Bramall Lane, he may replace him in the starting lineup.

Pep Guardiola’s departure is not likely to be a stumbling barrier in the Blades’ negotiations with the Premier League club.

Enzo Maresca is the front-runner to take over at the Etihad after the Catalan coach ended his tenure.

Phillips has made 16 league appearances for Manchester City since joining from Leeds United four years ago.

The midfielder has been on loan with Ipswich Town, West Ham, and Sheffield United.

Kalvin Phillips needs to show his fitness for Sheffield United’s return.

Phillips has battled for consistent game time in the four years since joining the Etihad, and this was evident during his initial loan spell at Bramall Lane.

If Wilder is to make this move a success, he must do everything he can to guarantee the midfielder is always available for selection.

A completely fit Phillips may be a valuable addition for next season, especially given his experience competing at the highest level, but expecting him to play 90 minutes every week would be a huge risk.

Holding onto players like Ollie Arblaster and Sydie Peck will also be critical to making this agreement work, since they will be important to a successful Championship campaign next year.