We may only be halfway through the Championship season, but it's beginning to look a little like a three-horse race for the automatic promotion places.

Leeds United lead the charge, but Sheffield United and Burnley are unlikely to fall away any time soon, with just three points separating the top three sides in the division. Only two can guarantee a return to the Premier League, of course, and having missed out via the play-offs last year, Daniel Farke and Co are even more determined they get the job done in 2025.

One significant factor yet to play out is the January transfer window, with clubs able to add to their squads for the rigours of the second half of the season. It's never an easy time to strike the right deals, with prices inflated and the danger of changing the balance of a squad.

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Leeds are open for business should the right transfer present itself, but Farke and Co are keeping their cards close to their chest. However, rivals Sheffield United have been a bit clearer about their transfer hopes with injuries meaning manager Chris Wilder is keen to get some deals done.

The Blades saw defender Harry Souttar return to parent club Leicester after he snapped his Achilles to end his season, That has left them short of cover at the back, with Jack Robinson and Anel Ahmedhozic experienced centre-backs, along with and 21-year-old Jamal Baptisite - and Wilder is hopeful of some new additions.

"Harry Souttar goes back to Leicester now," Wilder said ahead of their game with Sunderland tonight. "He's snapped his Achilles and is out for the season so that's a big blow for us. He's been amazing, his partnership with Anel and with Jack as well. He's been outstanding and is a great personality to work with, a great character. I'm devastated for him. He loved it here and he's absolutely gutted. I spoke to him the day after Boxing Day, but we have to get on with it and show what we're all about.

"We've had conversations and they are ongoing positive conversations with the owners to sensibly help the group, and the supporters, in terms of having a strong second half of the season. I like the chemistry of the group but players need resting."

The window is open for business from today, and will run until 11pm on Monday, February 3.