Stefano Hatfield to edit the Independent's i?

The Independent is understood to be in talks with Stefano Hatfield, the former editor of News International's now defunct freesheet the London Paper, to run its new 20p daily, i, which launched today . Hatfield, who edited the London Paper from 2006 until its closure in late 2009, is understood to be in discussions over a role in running i. The 56-page i, which will be published Monday to Friday, officially launched today, backed by a 100,000 copy giveaway to build up brand awareness . It is thought that if Hatfield does take a role at i, Simon Kelner, the editor-in-chief of the Independent and Independent on Sunday, will still retain ultimate editorial responsibility for the fledgling title. Hatfield was previously editor-in-chief at Metro in New York. Prior to that, he edited the trade magazine Campaign. The Independent declined to comment. • To contact the MediaGuardian news desk email [email protected] or phone 020 3353 3857. For all other inquiries please call the main Guardian switchboard on 020 3353 2000. • If you are writing a comment for publication, please mark clearly "for publication".