Newcastle are hoping to secure the services of three or four players in the coming weeks as Rafa Benitez prepares the club for life in the championship and Blackburn defender Grant Hanley is rumoured to be on Rafa’s list according to the Shields Gazette.
Newcastle have struggled with defenders for a few seasons now and although the arrival of Chancel Mbemba and Jamaal Lascelles did boost the number of defenders. Steven Taylor has departed the club and captain Coloccini is hoping for a return to his homeland.
Hanley, 24, is interesting a few clubs including Derby County and a fee of £5m could secure his services and has played Championship football for the past four seasons. Although QPR defender Steven Caulker and Arsenal defender Isaac Hayden are also being linked with the club.
The three defenders have all played in the Championship and have the experience that Rafa Benitez is looking for ahead of the long championship season.
