I think it was always in CW plans to go back in for him this Jaunary irrespective of Coutts injury. Though I think Coutts injury has crystallised the issue and I think Wilder will want to move quickly on this one.
Southend won't get the same money they wanted in thr summer (£750k) nor do I think they will.have their pants pulled down as despite him being out of contract in the summer they will hold him to the last 6 months and have 6 more months of his services rather than let him go for a pittance. They also know Utd could do with midfield reinforcements so that is a another thing they have in their favour.
The good thing frim Utd's perspective is that 1) CW is clearly trying to move quickly and get early January business completed, 2) weve had even more time to scout him out and be comfortable that he's the right man for us, 3) he's only got 6 months left and can talk to clubs anyway if he wants from January, and 4) Utd have clearly settled very well in the championship and there is no risk for Leonard in that he could join us and we would struggle (which was possibility in the summer).
I'd expect fairly quick negotiations and it all to be settled in early January. CW likes to do early busines. Price ? Who knows...id say perhaps £450k might get it done?