Reid, an England Under-19 international, was a free agent after his contract at West Ham expired earlier this summer and the Blades have won the race for his signature ahead of half a dozen rivals.

Blackwell, who has offered Reid a two-year contract, said: "Kyel is one who will be joining us. He's having a medical and is then going to sign."

The Blades manager is also hoping to negotiate a deal for former Portsmouth midfielder Glen Little, who is currently on trial at Bramall Lane.

Blackwell added: "Glen's with us for a couple of weeks and if all goes well we will be looking to make him a permanent signing.

"We know all about Glen. He was snapped up by Portsmouth from Reading last summer and if we could get him on board it would give us another very creative player."