Sky Sports understands that Blackburn Rovers have informed Newcastle United that defender Grant Hanley would cost them £6million to sign. It is well-documented that Rafa Benitez is keen on bringing the Scotland international to St James’ Park.
The Magpies have already have two bids rejected for the 24-year-old Scot. Benitez is looking to fill the void left by the departed Fabricio Coloccini.
Hanley’s proven experience at Championship level makes him an attractive proposition to the Spaniard. He also boosts Premier League experience to his name.
He has played over 180 times for Rovers since making his first-team bow in 2010 against Aston Villa in the Premier League.
Steven Taylor also left St James’ Park this summer, meaning that the Toon Army have lost two long-serving defenders over the summer. Benitez has been busy rebuilding his squad, with Arsenal’s Isaac Hayden his latest recruit. Andros Townsend has also left, whilst Georginio Wijnaldum and Moussa Sissoko could be next out the exit door.
Owen Coyle has expressed his desire to keep Hanley at Ewood Park. He is prepared to do all he can to keep the player. He sat out Rovers’ first pre-season game supposedly through injury. It remains to be seen if Newcastle will return with a £6million offer. Considering they are desperate to sign him, there is a very real possibility that they will.
