According to reports from The Lancashire Telegraph, Blackburn Rovers have offered a new contract to Sunderland transfer target Shane Duffy.

The Ireland international has established himself as one of the best defenders in the Championship since leaving Everton, initially on loan with Yeovil, in summer 2013.

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Indeed, he averaged a whopping 7.4 successful aerial duels last season, the most of any defender in the second tier by quite some distance.

Earlier this week, The Chronicle revealed that Sunderland are targeting the 24-year-old as a potential replacement for Lamine Kone, who could complete a summer transfer to Everton or Chelsea.

But it appears Blackburn are very reluctant to part with the 6 foot 4 centre-back, whose current contract expires at the end of the season - meaning the Black Cats could land him on the cheap.

According to The Lancashire Telegraph, the Championship outfit have just offered Duffy a new deal - alongside team-mate Ben Marshall.

Manager Owen Coyle confirmed the situation in his pre-match press conference, telling reporters; "I’ve spoken to both lads today.

“I had a really good chat with them and we’ll put something to their advisors and it’s up to them to come back and say whether it’s acceptable or whether it’s not and they are looking for X, Y or Z.

“But for me at least it shows that forward motion in respect of trying to achieve something. Both are great lads. Their attitude has been fantastic.

“Of course as players they are in a very strong position going into the last year of their contracts.

“I’ve had that chat with both today. I told them on Tuesday that I would sit down with them and explain that our offer would be with their representatives this afternoon which, in both cases, is an improved offer on what their existing contracts are.

“Now it up to their representatives to say yes, no or they’re looking for X, Y or Z."

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