Midlands rivals Aston Villa and Birmingham City could be about to duke it out for Newcastle United outcast Grant Hanley.
Birmingham City manager Harry Redknapp saved the club after being parachuted in to replace Gianfranco Zola
With Harry Redknapp at the helm, Birmingham City are aiming to make a serious splash in the transfer market this summer.
In fact, while the work of Gary Rowett should not be understated, their slide from the verge of the play-offs to the edge of the relegation zone after his departure spoke volumes, the highly-rated coach did leave a lot to be desired in the recruitment department at St Andrews.
Though, according to The Sun, things may be different under Redknapp. Because Birmingham are targeting a proven Championship defender in Newcastle United outcast Grant Hanley.
Newcastle United’s Grant Hanley needs a fresh start
The Scotland international quickly fell out of favour under Rafael Benitez on Tyneside, making just five league starts in his debut season after signing for £5.5 million from Blackburn Rovers.
And the rugged, combative Hanley purports to vastly improve a defence that conceded 64 times in the Championship last season, ensuring The Blues were forced to wait until the final day to secure their survival after plummeting down the table throughout the ill-fated reign of Gianfranco Zola.
However, there’s another reason why Hanley could prove a popular addition at St Andrews. Because Midlands rivals Aston Villa are understood to be very keen on signing the 25-year-old this summer.
The Chronicle claims that manager Steve Bruce will offer Hanley an escape route from his Newcastle nightmare. Villa, after all, were held back by an unhelpful habit of conceding sloppy goals last season and the club is in need of a reliable partner for the impressive James Chester.
Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce
And, with fellow suitors Derby County ending their interest following the bargain signing of Hull City’s Curtis Davies, it appeared that Villa were in pole position to secure Hanley’s signature.
Therefore, Birmingham could take some pleasure in strengthening their own squad while simultaneously raining on Villa’s summer plans.
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