Cotterill is believed to be keen on a move to the Blades

Sheffield United manager Kevin Blackwell has said he is hopeful of agreeing a deal to sign Wigan winger David Cotterill.

The Welshman made 16 appearances whilst on loan at Bramall Lane last season.

Blackwell told BBC Radio Sheffield: "Cotterill has made it quite clear that he wants to come back and we are in negotiations with Wigan.

"I am hopeful, but in football you can never say it will definitely happen until the deal is completed."

Meanwhile, the Blades will start their pre-season games on Monday against their Hungarian sister club Ferencvaros.