Newcastle United are interested in Blackburn Rovers defender Grant Hanley, according to The Sun.

Magpies manager Rafa Benitez, who is looking for a centre-back following the departures of Fabricio Coloccini and Steven Taylor, has identified the Blackburn skipper as a potential signing.

The Toon have already made an initial approach regarding the 24-year-old, but Rovers are desperate to hang onto their player.

Hanley, who has made 183 league appearances for Rovers, is said to be keen on a move to St. James' Park to work with Spaniard Benitez.