Derby County have been heavily linked with a summer swoop for Bristol City defender Aden Flint, but a move for Newcastle United’s Grant Hanley could prove to be a better option.
Newcastle United’s Grant Hanley celebrates scoring their sixth goal
According to reports from the Derby Telegraph, Derby County have targeted Bristol City’s 6ft 6in Aden Flint as a number one target and are ready to match any bids from rival clubs for the 27-year-old’s signature – but there is an alternative they should consider if things get too competitive for the Robins star.
Aston Villa are rumoured to have joined the race for Flint, with Premier League sides West Bromwich Albion and West Ham United also said to be interested in luring him away from Ashton Gate (The Sun).
Despite Derby’s defiant stance on going toe-to-toe with any club looking to sign Flint, they could be priced out of a move for the towering centre back.
The Rams have spent big in recent seasons in a bid to return back to the Premier League but have been ultimately unsuccessful. This summer will see the club take a different approach to the transfer window as boss Gary Rowett will be encouraged to free up funds by selling players from his inflated squad.
With the club’s spending now being taken into more consideration, it would be wise for Rowett to take a look at other options that will strengthen Derby’s defence and Newcastle United’s Hanley would be a sensible option.
£5-million-rated Aden Flint appears to be one of Derby’s targets
Hanley, who only signed for the Championship winners in a £6 million deal from Blackburn Rovers last summer, looks set for the exit door at St James’ Park after failing to force his way into Rafa Benitez’s first team plans.
The 25-year-old Scotland international made only 16 appearances, six of which were in cup competitions, for the Magpies last season and with Benitez keen to bolster his defensive options, Hanley will likely be sold.
It is unlikely that Newcastle will be able to recoup the full amount that they paid for Hanley and could therefore offer him to clubs for a cut price deal. If the opportunity does arise then Derby would have to consider Hanley as a more than suitable alternative.
Grant Hanley made just 10 league appearances for Newcastle United last season
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