Blades close on Haidong

Sheffield United look finally to have completed a move for Hao Haidong.

The Yorkshire outfit have been pursuing the 34-year-old striker for some time and now appear to have snared their man.

Haidong, who is not adverse to controversy, will complete the move after clearing up a legal row in his homeland that had previously blocked the transfer.

''We have worked tremendously hard on this deal and are pleased that we have got the green light to bring Hao over here,'' Blades chairman Terry Robinson told the club's official website.

''Hao is just waiting to get his visa to give him UK residency, which will be granted after the Chinese New Year.''

United hope that Haidong's signature will help enhance their standing in the lucrative Fast East market - where the club already run an academy.