Leeds United are facing a crucial 'week or so' in their pursuit of Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge as the Blades could 'start to cave in' amid interest from Elland Road, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Whites have been busy during the early stages of the summer window - with Brenden Aaronson, Rasmus Kristensen and Marc Roca heading to Yorkshire - and Berge could be the next close season acquisition.

GiveMeSport Transfer Update With Dean Jones

What's the latest news involving Berge?

Jones has previously told GIVEMESPORT that Berge has been identified as a potential replacement for Kalvin Phillips amid links to reigning Premier League champions Manchester City.

Berge is understood to be valued by Sheffield United at £25million and Norway international boss Stale Solbakken has hinted at the need for the 30-cap star to return to the top flight.

The Blades' asking price falls some way short of the £35million release clause which was written into the defensive midfielder's contract following the club's relegation into the Championship.

However, it would result in Sheffield United making a profit on the club-record £22million they spent luring Berge to Bramall Lane from Genk in January 2020.

Jesse Marsch, who was appointed as Leeds' head coach in February, has been reshaping his squad ahead of a first full season at the helm.

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What has Dean Jones said about Berge?

Jones believes it will be interesting to see whether Leeds are successful in making any progress when it comes to attempting to strike a deal for Berge in the coming days.

The transfer insider feels Sheffield United may drop their valuation of the Norwegian if Whites director of football Victor Orta looks to do business.

When asked about the links to Berge, Jones told GIVEMESPORT: "Let's see if they can make any headway on it.

"I think, over the next week or so, it will be interesting to see if Sheffield United start to cave in, if you like."

Would Berge be a good replacement for Phillips?

It will be difficult for any star to be seen as the ideal replacement for Phillips, a player who has won the hearts of Leeds fans over the course of more than 230 appearances.

However, Berge has been described by former Sheffield United chief Chris Wilder as 'unique' and 'a complete midfielder', so there is no doubting that he has an abundance of talent.

The 24-year-old would also offer more of an attacking threat than Phillips, with statistics showing he averaged more goals, shots and efforts on target per 90 minutes last season, so he would be a shrewd signing.