Sheffield United have signed Chelsea full-back Alfie Gilchrist on a season-long loan.

The 20-year-old made his Blues debut against Crystal Palace in the Premier League in December last year and went on to make 17 appearances in all competitions.

He could feature for the Blades in their Championship season-opener at Preston on Friday.

“Alfie was always one of the players who featured high on our wanted list,” boss Chris Wilder told the club website, external.

“Everyone in the game is aware of Alfie and his abilities, so our pitch to him, and Chelsea, had to be spot on.

“There’s been a lot of work behind the scenes to get this deal through, and we’re looking forward to working with a really talented player.”

Gilchrist is the second player to join United this week after Leicester defender Harry Souttar signed on a season-long loan on Tuesday.