The Reds have failed in a bid to sign Leyton Orient captain Stephen Dawson.
It is understood by Sky Sports that Keith Hill has moved for the 26-year-old former Bury man but been knocked back by the League One side. Hill has already stated his desire to replace Danny Drinkwater, who moved to Leicester yesterday for £1million.
And with skipper Jacob Butterfield out for the season, Hill's midfield has been decimated. It remains to be seen whether Hill goes back for Dawson, who is out of contract in the summer. But Orient could be tempted to cash in on their skipper if he can't agree a new contract with the O's.