Blackburn Rovers appear to be rivalling Celtic for Hibernian midfielder John McGinn.
According to the Daily Record, Blackburn Rovers are now entering the race to sign Hibernian midfielder John McGinn, leaving Celtic sweating.
McGinn, 23, has starred for Hibernian since his 2015 move from St Mirren, and has become a Scotland international off the back of 18 goals in 135 games for Hibs.
The Scot has become a key player under Neil Lennon, but the problem for Hibs is that McGinn’s contract expires next summer, meaning he will be able to walk away for free in 2019.
Celtic have attempted to take advantage of that fact by lodging three bids this summer, but Hibs have rejected them all, as reported by Sky Sports, with the latter totalling around £2million.
Celtic have been prepared to sit and wait on McGinn in the hope of landing a bargain or simply signing him for free in 2019, but now they have competition.
The Daily Record claim that Blackburn Rovers are now hoping to land McGinn before Thursday’s transfer deadline in England, with manager Tony Mowbray – formerly of Celtic and Hibs – still having strong connections at Easter Road.
That could be a real problem for Celtic, who could now see McGinn slip through their grasp and head to the Championship despite Brendan Rodgers’ interest in him.
Celtic will hope that the English deadline passes with McGinn still at Hibs, as that would leave them all alone in the race for his signature – but it could be a nervy few days for the Bhoys.
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