Sheffield United are reportedly hoping to sign a former England star this summer as they look to return to the Premier League at the first time of asking. 

The Blades were relegated from the top flight last season after a dismal campaign that saw them win just three of their 38 games.

Chris Wilder's side started the new season in fine fashion with a 2-0 win over Preston North End on Friday in their opening Championship game to outline their status as one of the promotion favourites.

They have already made several big moves in the market this summer, including the additions of Kieffer Moore, Callum O'Hare, Alfie Gilchrist and Harry Souttar.

And, according to The Sun, the Blades are now plotting to bring in Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in what would be a hugely ambitious move.

Sheffield United are eyeing-up a transfer for a former Liverpool and Arsenal star this summer

The report claims that Oxlade-Chamberlain, who moved to Besiktas after leaving Liverpool last summer, was hoping to return to the Premier League this year after falling out of favour in Turkey.

However, with no offers forthcoming, the 35-cap England international is believed to potentially be open to a top Championship move.

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Given Sheffield United are fancied for promotion, a move to Bramall Lane would therefore seemingly fit the bill for Oxlade-Chamberlain.

The midfielder played 30 times for the Besiktas last year, scoring four goals, but the Turkish giants are reported to be willing to let Oxlade-Chamberlain leave this summer.

This comes after former Rangers boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst took over, with the Dutchman attempting to reshape his squad.  

Oxlade-Chamberlain originally rose to fame after coming through the youth ranks at Southampton, before he joined Arsenal as a 17-year-old.

He went on to play 198 times for the Gunners until Liverpool signed the midfielder for £35million in 2017.

Oxlade-Chamberlain started well with the Reds, but his tenure at the club was ultimately marred by fitness issues, although the 30-year-old did still win five trophies.

In total, he made 146 appearances across six years before switching Merseyside for Turkey.