Leeds United's title rivals Sheffield United have bolstered their forward line, securing the services of Ben Brereton Diaz on loan until the end of the season.

Returning for another stint at Bramall Lane, the 25-year-old Southampton forward is no stranger to the Blades, having already enjoyed a loan spell from La Liga's Villareal back in January 2024 where he netted six times in 14 starts.

Despite his move last summer to Southampton becoming permanent, Brereton has struggled to find form with the Saints this season, failing to score in 13 outings amidst the club’s challenges. Eager to get back into the groove, Brereton Diaz expressed his excitement on the Sheffield United website: "I’m absolutely buzzing, it is a club I’ve been at before and really enjoyed and I obviously know the staff and the players that are still here."

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He outlined the pull of returning to familiar surroundings, especially given his young family's base back in Southampton, saying: "For me personally, with a young family back in Southampton I didn’t want to go somewhere else unfamiliar, but most importantly I know what the gaffer and his staff are about and I’ve been delighted to see the team doing so well this season, for me it was a no-brainer to come back."

Brereton Diaz also shared his optimism and anticipation for contributing to Sheffield United’s campaign: "Coming back to Sheffield United this time I know I will enjoy it more than the first time, the lads have done unbelievably well and I’m just here to hopefully help the team achieve the goal of promotion."

The Whites reclaimed top spot at United's expense yesterday after beating Sheffield Wednesday 3-0 at Elland Road yesterday. There are just three points separating the top three.