United Complete Hanley Signing

By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor

Newcastle United have completed the signing of defender Grant Hanley from Blackburn Rovers.

The 24-year-old Scotland international has put pen to paper on a five-year deal at St. James' Park and arrives for an undisclosed fee.

Hanley came through the ranks at Blackburn before being handed his debut at the age of 18 in a Premier League fixture at Aston Villa in May 2010.

The centre-back remained at Ewood Park following Rovers' relegation from the top flight and was appointed captain in January 2014.

In six years at the Lancashire club he made 201 appearances in all competitions, scoring nine goals.

"I'm over the moon and delighted to be here," said Hanley.

"It is a fantastic opportunity to come and play at such a big club and one that I couldn't turn down.

"It is an exciting step in my career but it doesn't stop there. This is just the start and I am looking forward to helping Newcastle get back into the Premier League."

Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez added: "I am very pleased to bring Grant Hanley to our project to add his hard work and potential to our squad.

"It was clear that we needed another central defender and we were seeking someone with good experience in the Championship.

"Grant is a young player with a lot of ambition to improve and keep growing with us. He is also a strong defender, fast and with personality, a player that surely will increase competitiveness in his position."