Blackburn ‘set to bid’ for Ryan Porteous as Hibs could land six-figure sum for Scotland defender
BLACKBURN Rovers are the latest club to show interest in Ryan Porteous and could make an offer this month, according to a report.
The Ewood Park side are managed by former Malmo boss Jon Dahl Tomasson, who led the Swedish outfit to memorable victories over Hibs and Rangers in qualifying for the Europa League and Champions League respectively.
He's now set his sights on signing one of the brightest talents the country has to offer.
Porteous has attracted interest from fellow EFL Championship club Watford but it was with Italian side Udinese that talks were most advanced as of last week.
However negotiations have stalled as Hibs and the Serie A outfit have been unable to agree on a fee.
Blackburn are ready to offer Hibs a six-figure sum, according to the Daily Record.
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It's said that Rovers will make an offer this month to try and bring the Scotland international to Lancashire as they look to win promotion back to the Premier League for the first time since the 2011-12 season.
Tomasson wants to strengthen his defence specifically and that's why it's believed Porteous has been made a priority in this window.
Hibs are left in a sticky situation because Porteous' contract is up at the end of the season.
It's of no doubt that the 23-year-old is a key player for Lee Johnson but if Hibs don't sell up now, even for less than they value the player, they would end up with nothing come the summer.
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Johnson himself bemoaned "poor historic decisions" at the Easter Road club that have allowed situations like this to happen.
He said earlier this month: "I don’t know the specifics, but I can tell you there are a few clubs interested in Ryan as he’s a very good player who I didn’t want to lose.
"But it sums up poor historic decisions made at this club.
"Ryan should have had a four-year contract two- and-a-half years ago. How has that not happened? These are things which frustrate me.
"There are good people here and the fans deserve more than they got."
Meanwhile, Hibs ace Aiden McGeady's multi-million pound property empire has been revealed.
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