Leeds defender O’Connor could thrive if Sunderland complete Heneghan signing

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According to Sky Sports News, Sunderland could launch a January swoop for Sheffield United defender Ben Heneghan.

Sunderland face competition from Blackburn Rovers with Heneghan potentially available this month.

Sheffield United loaned the 25-year-old out to Blackpool this season and he has played 28 games this season.

But having made just one appearance for the Blades since his move from Motherwell, they are willing to let him go.

And if Sunderland do manage to snap up Heneghan, then that could help Leeds United youngster Paudie O’Connor.

Blackpool also signed O’Connor on a season-long loan deal but he has not featured as regularly as fellow centre-half Heneghan.

O’Connor has played 16 games for the Tangerines, although he has been playing regularly since Curtis Tilt suffered an injury just before Christmas.

The 21-year-old could be given more first-team opportunities if Heneghan departs, though.

And with centre-back quickly becoming a problem position at Leeds due to injuries, O’Connor could stake his claim for a first-team place next season.

The Irish defender has played four games for Leeds’ senior team in his career and this loan spell at Blackpool was meant to get him first-team ready.

A few weeks back, O’Connor was warming the bench. But after his recall due to Tilt’s injury and with Heneghan linked with an exit, the youngster could get back on track and save his Leeds career.