Wolves target Sheffield United defender Harry Maguire

Sources say the 21-year-old stopper is among Kenny Jackett's targets as the head coach looks to strengthen early for the Championship.

Maguire, who has a year left on his contract, fits the young and hungry profile Jackett is looking to continue to target after his successful 'under the radar' recruitment policy during his first season in charge.

Wolves raided the Blades last August for prized midfielder Kevin McDonald and they are looking to do the same with Maguire, who has formed an effective partnership with former Molineux defender Neill Collins.

But unlike McDonald, who had a clause inserted in his deal stating he could leave for £250,000, there is no such arrangement with Maguire and the Molineux men could face paying around £1m for the England Under-21 international, which would be the highest fee paid out under Jackett.

Despite his tender years, the 6ft 4ins central defender has earned an impressive reputation which has seen him linked with Chelsea, Manchester United, Everton and Hull this season.

The Sheffield-born stopper has piled up 166 appearances for his only club, playing over 50 times in each of the last three seasons.

Making the PFA League One team of the year on each occasion, he has been voted the club's player of the year three times in a row.

Wolves are also interested in Coventry striker Callum Wilson, 22, and have been strongly linked with Heerenveen's Dutch winger Rajiv van La Parra, also 22.

Jackett insists the three or four signings he is looking to make – with a left-back and a central midfielder on his list - will all be players looking to make their way in the game.

"We attracted James Henry, Michael Jacobs and Kevin McDonald because of the potential and the position we were in, and also the position they were in at their clubs," he said.

"So I think we're very much still in that market of trying to take players with a point to prove – that's very important and a big key to hunger and success.

"Big names? No, I don't think so. We have to bring in hunger, desire and people who are excited about coming down that drive to the training ground."

Jackett was last night named joint League One manager of the year with Leyton Orient's Russell Slade.