"Mark has made it clear to the board he would like the opportunity to talk to Manchester City," confirmed Rovers in a statement. "In view of this, the board have decided reluctantly to give him permission."
With City in Europe next season and a potential unlimited transfer budget from Thaksin Shinawatra Hughes has a big decision to make. Can he work under the semingly unpredictable Shinawatra.
The former Thai Prmime Minister sacked Sven asfter taking Man City to their best finish for years.
Hughes though offers stability. He has steadily gone about his job at Blackburn an in four years has taken them to Europe twice and proved he's able to dabble in the transfer market with signing likes Benni McCarthy and last season Roque Santa Cruz who was seen as the buy of the season.
Being a former Utd player does not appear to be a problem. City fans recognise the job the man can do rather than who he used to play for.
There's still Chelsea to consider though as well. Hughes is still a target for the job at Stamford Bridge. The move by Man City has now set up a tug of war for Hughes who seems certain to be leaving Ewood Park one way or the other.
As for possible replacements. First name mention is Sam Allardyce, with Steve McLaren and Paul Jewell's names thrown into the ring.