Sheffield United have confirmed the signing of defender John Brayford from Cardiff City on a three-and-a-half-year deal.

The fee reached for the player remains undisclosed, but speculation has suggested that it could be in the region of £1.5m.

"We are absolutely thrilled he is coming back permanently, John has been at the top of our list for a long time and our patience has finally been rewarded," manager Nigel Clough said of the deal via the club's official website.

"There aren't very many loan players who galvanise a team and club like John did last season, simply by his actions on the field."

The 27-year-old has become a cult figure at Bramall Lane following a successful loan period at the Blades last season.