Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder says the Blades have landed their “number one target” after re-signing rising Cumbrian goalkeeper Dean Henderson on a season-long loan from Manchester United.

The 22-year-old, a former Carlisle United Academy keeper, was an ever-present in the Blades’ promotion-winning campaign last season and kept a total of 21 clean sheets.

“Dean was always our number one target,” said Wilder after today's announcement.

“We’ve had to fight to get a good deal and that’s part and parcel of our approach in the transfer market.”

Whitehaven-born Henderson’s return swiftly follows the arrival of midfielder Ben Osborn, who became the Blades’ sixth summer signing after joining from Nottingham Forest.

The Forest academy product made 230 appearances for the Reds in all competitions, having made his debut against Ipswich in March 2014.

He joins for an undisclosed fee and has agreed a three-year deal.

Wilder told the club’s website: “He’s been a fantastic player for Forest in the Championship and I know for certain that two or three clubs in January were sniffing around to take him.

“He’s got a lot of attributes that will help us, going forward, and we’re looking forward to him pulling on a red and white shirt.

“We are putting together a group that’s got to be competitive in arguably the best division in the world.”