NOTTINGHAM FOREST outcast Lewis O’Brien is back on the radar of Premier League new boys Sheffield United.
The Blades were keen on landing the midfield dynamo in January’s window but were unable to sign players due to a transfer embargo.
GettySheffield United want to sign O’Brien from Nottingham Forest[/caption]
O’Brien, 24, currently on loan at Wayne Rooney’s DC United in the MLS, is likely to be surplus to requirements again when he returns to Forest in July.
They would consider a loan or permanent deal — with the only snag being whether to deal with a direct rival.
Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom has a reduced transfer budget despite promotion back to the top flight.
Saudi owner Prince Abdullah is trying to bolster his kitty by getting additional financial backing from allies in the Middle East.
O’Brien signed for Nottingham Forest in a £10million transfer from Huddersfield last summer.
The midfielder made 15 appearances during his first five months at The City Ground before falling out of favour with Steve Cooper.
He joined MLS side DC United on a four-month loan in March and has since registered one goal and one assist in 10 games.
O’Brien was quick to praise Rooney upon his arrival in Washington.
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He told DC United’s official website: “It’s massive, if you look back at my career I’ve played against him a few times as well.
“We’ve had a few jokes about it. I know people that he’s managed previously back at Derby and stuff and it’s a perfect opportunity for me.
“He played in a similar position that I play in and I think he’s going to make everyone he coaches a much better footballer.”
Three MLS clubs – not including DC United – have expressed an interest in signing O’Brien in recent months.
New York City, Columbus Crew and Atlanta United were keen on the prospect of signing him earlier this year.