James clarity and Davies urgency as Birmingham City begin transfer window

On Friday, the transfer window will open, allowing Birmingham City to officially bolster Chris Davies’ squad for the upcoming League One campaign.

The lack of additions for Blues thus far can be attributed to the recent appointment of a manager just a week ago, which has now opened the door for quicker progress in this area. Several players have been rumored to be linked with the club, and there are uncertainties surrounding some of those currently part of the squad.

One player whose situation appears clear is Jordan James. The midfielder, who scored eight goals, garnered interest in January, and Blues may find it challenging to retain him this summer as Atalanta is poised to reevaluate their interest.

At 19 years old, James is unlikely to consider spending a season in League One, especially after establishing himself in Wales’ starting lineup. While comparisons to Adam Wharton may be a stretch, there’s every possibility that Blues could secure a substantial fee for James.

Ethan Laird, Paik Seung-ho, Koji Miyoshi, and Juninho Bacuna are also facing decisions on whether they’re willing to endure a season in League One.

While Birmingham City undoubtedly possesses individuals capable of thriving in the Championship, it would be encouraging to see some players take responsibility for relegation and commit to aiding the club’s ascent from League One.

Similarly, Krystian Bielik, one of the club’s most impactful players, has already had a meeting with Davies on his inaugural day as manager. Securing Bielik’s presence next season would be a significant boost for Birmingham City.

Technical director Craig Gardner is collaborating with academy technical director Mike Rigg and new manager Davies to scout potential new players. Their directive, as set by chief executive Garry Cook, is to “construct a Championship squad for League One.”

Blues may find themselves with players earning Championship-level salaries, a financial advantage that most of their League One rivals won’t match.

The first player linked with Blues this summer is Sheffield Wednesday midfielder George Byers. According to The Star, Blues are one of several League One teams eyeing Byers as he nears the end of his contract at Hillsborough.

BirminghamLive understands Blues are among the clubs interested in Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Marc Leonard. Leonard is attracting transfer interest after a stellar League One campaign with Northampton Town, where he scored five goals and recorded six assists. The 22-year-old has spent the last two seasons on loan with the Cobblers from Premier League Brighton and could make a permanent move away now that he has entered the final 12 months of his contract.

Birmingham City is actively seeking durable players this summer, with Ryan Leonard being a standout candidate. Leonard showcased exceptional durability in the previous League One season, featuring in all 46 games for Northampton, which placed 14th. He logged an impressive 4,130 minutes out of a possible 4,140.

Reports suggest that a £300,000 fee could secure Leonard, but competition for his signature is fierce. Championship clubs like Sheffield United and Oxford United, along with Blues’ League One rivals Wrexham, have expressed interest.

Additionally, Birmingham City is eyeing Burnley’s 24-year-old playmaker Scott Twine. However, Twine has multiple options in the Championship, including Bristol City, where he had a loan spell last season.