Hibs star Paul Hanlon thinks former Easter Road team-mate John McGinn would be a £50million “bargain” amid reported interest from Liverpool and Manchester United – hailing the Aston Villa midfielder as a “dream” for fans.
McGinn’s performances for Dean Smith’s side have seen him linked with a big money move away from Villa Park and, according to Sunday Post, that has led to the Premier League giants plotting a move for the former Hibs midfielder.
With claims Villa are demanding £50million for the Scotland star, Hibs could pocket as much as £7.5million thanks to a 15% sell-on clause inserted when he left the Easter Road side to head south.
Hanlon confessed that it isn’t a surprise to see McGinn’s career continue to blossom and thinks fans wherever he ends up will be delighted with the “humble” Scotland star.
“Fifty million — that’s a bargain, eh? Nobody who has worked with John, is surprised how he constantly steps up,” Hanlon said, as quoted by the Scottish Sun.
“It’s his character, he is humble and down to earth but he has that determination to succeed and confidence in his own ability at the same time and you see that when he plays.
“He’s a dream for football fans really, he is the one that gets you off your seat and excited and I’m sure if he did get another move he would be exactly the same player as he is at Aston Villa.
“I think there is a clause in terms of sell-ons. Listen, he’s a great guy and he has been brilliant for Scotland as well.
“If he managed to earn himself a move like that, in my eyes it would be fully deserved for what he’s done for Aston Villa and Scotland.”
McGinn move would be ideal replacement for Wijnaldum
After losing Georginio Wijnaldum to PSG this summer, Liverpool are in the market for a replacement and McGinn would be an ideal choice for Anfield boss Jurgen Klopp.
The Aston Villa midfielder has been hugely impressive for club and country in the last few years, and it’s no surprise the likes of Liverpool and Man United are apparently keen.
Whether Liverpool are prepared to pay the £50million Villa want though remains to be seen – although Hibs will be hoping the price can somehow be driven even higher.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
