Sheffield United are closing in on the deadline day signing of midfielder Ismael Kone, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano has claimed on Twitter.

The Lowdown: Blades linked with Kone move

The Blades have been looking to do some late-summer business to aid their Championship promotion push, with Kone emerging as a target on Thursday.

The 20-year-old is currently plying his trade at CF Montreal, has won two caps for Canada and will of course hope to appear at the upcoming World Cup.

Now, it looks as though United may have got their man.

The Latest: Signing set to be completed

Taking to Twitter on Thursday, Romano claimed that Kone is on the verge of becoming a Blades player, with a £4.5million deal mooted:

"Sheffield United are closing in on deal to sign Canadian midfielder Ismael Kone on permanent deal for £4.5m fee up to £5m package including bonuses."

The Verdict: Perfect Berge replacement

This is an exciting piece of business by United, with Kone's international status outlining his pedigree, as is the interest Norwich City showed in him earlier in the summer.

The hope is that the Canadian youngster can take the Blades to another level, bringing more quality in the middle of the park and looking to improve on his three goals and assists apiece in 25 appearances for Montreal.

Whether or not Kone is thrown straight in for his debut away to Hull City on Saturday remains to be seen, but long-term he should slot straight in for Brugge-bound Sander Berge.