Marcel Seip will bring versatility and calmness to United's backline when he gets the chance to show what he can do at Bramall Lane.

The Dutch defender has agreed to join on loan from Plymouth until the end of the season as Kevin Blackwell covers his options and guards against losing the likes of Matt Kilgallon:

"We need a centre-half and it is difficult sometimes to get the right people in without spending big money. But Marcel played for Argyle for several years, did well on loan at Blackpool and is available which is a big boost in case we are short of players on Sunday against QPR.

"He is from the Dutch school of football so he likes to get the ball down and can pass it well, as well as offering options along the backline."

Seip's deal will be activated from 1st January 2010.