Sheffield United centre-half Chris Lucketti is reported to be the player Jim Magilton is hopeful of signing on loan by the end of the week. The 35-year-old has been out of favour at Bramall Lane since the Blades' promotion to the Premiership.

Lucketti began his career with hometown club Rochdale, but made only one senior appearance before moving on to Stockport in 1990 where he failed to make the grade.

Two years at Halifax followed, then the 6ft tall defender switched to Bury where he spent six years and was part of Stan Ternent's double-promotion-winning side, along with former Blue David Johnson.

Huddersfield bought him for £750,000 in 1999 with Preston paying the same fee for his services two years later.

A loan move to Sheffield United in March led to a permanent £300,000 move in May. The Blades are keen for the veteran defender to spend some time away on loan in order to get match fit. His only appearance this season came in last month's Carling Cup tie with his old club Bury.

Lucketti has made 654 appearances in his long career, scoring 26 goals. Burnley and Derby are also reported to be interested in signing Lucketti on a short-term basis.

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