Blackpool are interested in a late deal for Peterborough United's Oliver Norburn according to The Sun's Alan Nixon.

The 29-year-old has made 25 appearances in the second tier this season for the Posh after signing from Shrewsbury Town in the summer on a deal until 2024.

The Tangerines are in a far more stable position in the league table than Peterborough, which may act as a bargaining position in persuading the Grenada international to jump ship.

Peterborough are usually quite clever and firm in ensuring their prized assets remain at the club until they can recoup a substantial fee for their services, at 29 it feels unlikely that Norburn will command a hefty fee, but with the Posh's predicament in the relegation battle, they will be desperate to keep hold of him.

Blackpool's depth was hurt a bit by Ryan Wintle being recalled by Cardiff City this month, while they have focused on strengthening their attacking contingent by bringing Charlie Kirk and Jake Beesley through the door.

Jeando Fuchs arrived at London Road from Dundee United this afternoon to strengthen midfield areas, but it seems unlikely that would make Norburn available for transfer.

Alan Nixon explained the situation on Twitter this afternoon.

He wrote: "Blackpool.

"Surprise late and strong interest in Ollie Norburn at Peterborough.

"Want more in midfield.

"Would cost a few bob …"

If Posh are to survive this season and catch the likes of Reading and Cardiff City in the coming months, they need to enter February looking stronger than they did January, losing Norburn at this late stage would make that difficult.

The Verdict

The Tangerines have conducted some very smart business in the last season and a half, establishing themselves as a mid table Championship side as a result, it would be out of character for them to pay over the odds for a 29-year-old midfielder when they are going along so well, much closer to the play-offs than the relegation battle.

It would also be a strange move for the Posh to allow Norburn to leave at this time, they have performed poorly on the pitch this season, but are very smart operators in the transfer market and will know that Norburn is a player who could be crucial for the club in the coming years, be it in the third or second tier.

It would be very surprising if this rumour came true, and would possibly point towards a breakdown in relations within the camp.