The midfielder's name has been circulated to other clubs with the Blades reluctant to part with one of their most prized assets for anything less than £1m.

Manager Neil Warnock was involved in talks with the 20-year-old and his agent Mel Stein before agreeing to place him on the transfer list.

The development comes just days after Wayne Quinn agreed a month's loan at Newcastle - with a view to Bobby Robson signing him on a permanent basis.

Bramall Lane assistant manager Kevin Blackwell had nothing but praise for one of the club's most highly-rated players.

He said: "It's been said that he's been here for a long time and it might be time for a change for Curtis.

"We are talking about an England Under-21 international. He is only 20 years old and has played almost 100 games for us.

"Curtis has a lot of potential. He is tenacious and has the desire to win. He makes other players tick and has a infectious effect on them."

Warnock's right-hand man also confirmed West Brom approached the Blades about a possible move for Woodhouse last month.