Blackburn and Stoke City are reportedly interested in Glenn Whelan

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Glenn Whelan could be heading back to Stoke City but the Potters are not the only ones in the hunt for his signature this summer.

According to a report from Birmingham Live, Blackburn Rovers are set to battle it out with Stoke City for the signing of Glenn Whelan in the summer.

The veteran Irishman was one of eight players to have been released by Aston Villa after the victory against Derby County in the final of the play-offs.

Whelan, at 35 years of age, was widely expected to be released at the end of his contract with the Villans and he will now have to look for a new challenge as he nears the end of his career.

A return to Stoke City has been on the cards, with the Potters allegedly willing to bring him back this summer.

Whelan spent nine years with Stoke and played a staggering 337 games for them in all competitions. An end to his career at the place where he made his name would be a fairy tale but Blackburn’s interest complicates things a little.

The report reveals that Tony Mowbray’s side could offer a deal to the 35-year-old midfielder this summer, and bring part of the Rovers’ project could be an interesting challenge for Whelan next season.

Stoke and Blackburn were separated by a place and just five points in the Championship last season and the signing of someone as experienced as Glenn Whelan will be a massive boost to either side as they look to move higher up the table next season.

With familiar surroundings and the love of the fans, Whelan will most likely return to the club that made him. But that should not have any impact on Blackburn trying their luck with an offer in the coming days.