Birmingham City's acquisition of Grant Hanley has got the readers of BirminghamLive engaged in our comments section. The experienced centre-back and Scottish international has joined the Blues on a free transfer, signing a six-month contract until the end of the season.

This marks the fourth club in the 33-year-old's professional career following stints at Blackburn Rovers, Newcastle United, and Norwich. Hanley brings a wealth of experience and leadership qualities to the Blues - having won two promotions to the Premier League with the Canaries and served as captain for the past six years.

However, his game-time has been limited over the last two seasons, and he has fallen out of favour with Norwich boss Johannes Hoff Thorup this campaign. Some Birmingham fans see Hanley as a valuable addition, for the rest of the season, but not everyone is in agreement about the decision.

READ MORE: Birmingham City respond as Exeter City ‘appalled’ by alleged racist abuse of player

READ MORE: Birmingham City transfer state of play: Ones to watch after double defender swoop

Geoffkk comments: "Just for cover till the end of the season, then [Phil] Neumann joins in the summer."

Allforone adds: "Grant was Harry Kane's worst nightmare in his Premier League days. A good solid no-nonsense defender. Guaranteed to win you balls in the air. Short-term contract to fill the gaps in the team, great business."

While RIPPER feels: "Would have preferred a left-footer CH. IMO Sanderson at 24-years-old is a better long-term prospect but, on a short-term contract (hopefully on a reasonable salary), perhaps he can win a few of us around."

Bongob believes: "This makes sense as a shorter-term contract if they are sure of getting Neumann. It fills the gap left by loaning out Sanderson."

Durhamblue thinks: "He's a good and experienced player. Although he's not likely to start many matches as fourth choice CB. It's a bit of a slap in the face for the U21 defenders - none of whom are considered good enough to step up to provide cover."

R10 says: "Still early days, but calling back Tommy Fogarty could have been an option. That being said, I think this is a good bit of short-term business."

Bluzrus comments: "A good experienced player, can also score goals!"

Nutcase25 writes: "A short-term contract. No brainier. Loads of experience and he's actually not guaranteed a spot anyway... We'll let the manager decide."

Faillte disagrees: "I don't see the point of this signing. He's 33-years-old and over the hill. I thought our future planning was for young and hungry with the ability to play in the championship should we achieve that? A complete waste of a salary here and he'll bring nothing to the squad. Perhaps we're flashing the cash once again and it's a last payday for Hanley. Only reason I can think of that he would take a backward step. Not impressed!"

Boomting replies: "Rather than spending fortunes on players down in League One, they are bringing a quality older experienced player in on a short-term deal. I think it's a great signing.

"No pressure or cost to next season's budget or squad."