Sheffield United and Blackburn Rovers are both interested in getting Norwich City defender Grant Hanley.
In order to strengthen their chances of promotion, Sheffield United and Blackburn Rovers plan to add several players during the January transfer window.
The Blades, who have new ownership and were only demoted from the Premier League the previous season, should have more money to spend as they aim to put together a team that can return to the top flight on their first try, while Rovers will likely need to employ their usual guile.
According to recent reports, the Championship pair may be about to compete in the transfer market.
A reporter Alan Nixon stated on his Patreon that Sheffield United, another team vying for promotion, is a rival to Blackburn Rovers’ desire to sign former centre-back Grant Hanley on a reunion contract.
The 33-year-old is down the Norwich City hierarchy under Johannes Hoff Thorup and has a contract expiring in the summer. Given his contract status, it is stated that any move must have a long-term chance come summer, but both Rovers and the Blades are searching for a more immediate fix.
Fans of Blackburn Rovers will be well-versed with Hanley. The defender spent some time in the Rangers system before moving to Ewood Park in the summer of 2008, where he remained for eight years until Newcastle United approached him.
The Scot played 200 games in all competitions for Rovers before joining Norwich City in 2017 after having trouble finding playing time in the northeast.
Hanley has made 197 appearances, however this season he has only made four. Despite being primarily benched by Thorup, he still provides a wealth of knowledge and invaluable leadership at the core of defence.
He has also played for Scotland 59 times.
While a return to Blackburn Rovers could be a romantic move, some contend that Hanley isn’t quite necessary. While Hayden Carter is away and will return shortly, Danny Batth has teamed Dom Hyam in an amazing manner.
While John Eustace envisions Scott Wharton returning in the long run, Kyle McFadzean is available as cover in the interim.
Sheffield United will be looking for a visually appealing alternative for Harry Souttar, who is now on loan. Although Hanley has a long history, he hasn’t been a favourite of a team lower in the Championship, so he might not be the most exciting Souttar replacement. Although it wouldn’t be shocking if Hanley wasn’t the move, only time will tell whether anything comes of the links.
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