Striker swoop in balance

Stoke have made an enquiry for James Beattie but no offer has been made for the striker according to Sheffield United.

The Potters are on the look out for a new striker and reports claimed that boss Tony Pulis had made a £2.5million bid for the former Everton and Southampton star.

However, Blades boss Kevin Blackwell says an offer has not yet been made as yet, although one could be in the pipeline.

"I can confirm that Stoke have made an enquiry," Blackwell told the Sheffield Star. "I have left it with my board of directors and it is up to them to decide what to do from here.

"As far as I'm concerned James is still a United player and that is how it will stay until I'm told otherwise."

Meanwhile, Blades chairman Kevin McCabe also insists no fee has been agreed and says the striker will only leave on their terms.

"No deal has been struck," McCabe said. "And if movement of players does occur, particularly involving those you do not want to go, then it would only be done to strengthen, not weaken the club. We will ensure that, as always, everything we do is in our best interests."