Latics have Stags defender in sights

Athletic scouts have been taking a close look at Mansfield Town centre back Ryan Tafazolli, here duelling with Ricardo Fuller in this season’s FA Cup clash at Field Mill.

ATHLETIC are on the trail of Mansfield centre-back Ryan Tafazolli.

A cut-price deal could be in the offing during the transfer window as manager David Dunn tries to bolster his defensive options. Tafazolli - 6ft 5in tall and a dominant figure at the back, impressed with his displays in the two FA Cup first-round outings against Athletic earlier this season.

The 24 year old is out of contract and available come the summer. Tafazolli was the focus of attention from more highly-placed clubs before the season began, but Mansfield took up a 12-month contract option.

Now, with the prospect of the Sutton-born player leaving for nothing, Athletic could test their resolve by making a cash offer to take him now, provided themony is made available.

During the corresponding window last season, striker Rhys Murphy joined Athletic from League Two club Dagenham on a similar deal as his contract ran down, for a £20,000 fee.

Tafazolli has not featured in the Stags’ last two league two games due to injury.

Dunn has alternative centre-half options on the table, and also wants to bring back Burnley full-back duo Cameron Dummigan and Daniel Lafferty on loan.

Dunn has stated his intention to trim his squad and will hope to clear out several fringe players during the current window.


ATHLETIC’S rearranged game at Blackpool will be played on Tuesday, February 16 (7.45pm kick-off).

The match, due on Boxing Day, was postponed because of waterlogged pitch.