Sheffield United boss Kevin Blackwell has admitted he has turned down an approach for defender Matt Kilgallon, with rumours suggesting it came from Championship high-flyers Newcastle United.

The 25-year-old rejected an offer of a new contract from the Blades in October, leading to speculation he would leave Bramell Lane in the January transfer window.

There had been reports that Magpies boss Chris Hughton was attempting to take the player to St James' Park on loan before Thursday's deadline, though he has suggested that a move in January is more likely.

Blackwell has stated that he recently turned down an approach from an unnamed club, though it seems he is resigned to losing the player in the near future.

"There has been an inquiry about Matt that has been turned down because we did not think it represented value for money for us," he told the club's official website.

"He can, of course, go for nothing in the summer but we are not giving players away for nothing. In Matt's case, either way it is in his best interests to play as well as he can.

"I believe that all the speculation has affected him because he hasn't been the same player that he was last season."