BIRMINGHAM CITY BEGIN TALKS TO SIGN MIDFIELDER

Birmingham City have begun talks to recruit 22-year-old Scottish midfielder Marc Leonard from Brighton & Hove Albion.

According to Alan Nixon, the transfer will be a loan with the option to buy.

Leonard spent the last two seasons on loan with Northampton Town, where he had a huge influence. During his career, he played 89 games in all competitions. His performances were critical in ensuring the Cobblers’ promotion from League Two to League One in the 2022/23 season.

The following season, he continued to flourish, scoring five goals and assisting six times, eventually being awarded Northampton’s Player of the Year. His contributions enabled the squad to finish 14th in League One.

In addition to his club achievements, Leonard has represented Scotland at various youth levels, appearing 18 times for his country. His last outing for Scotland’s U21 team came in a draw against Denmark in 2022.

Leonard’s performances have piqued the interest of not only Birmingham City, but numerous other clubs. Preston North End, Cardiff City, Swansea City, Portsmouth, Plymouth Argyle, Wrexham, and Sheffield United have all expressed an interest. Furthermore, international clubs such as Legia Warsaw and Sturm Graz have displayed interest in the young midfielder.

Birmingham City, on the other hand, are desperate to make Leonard their first signing of the season as they prepare to compete in League One for the first time since 1995. The team is attempting to rebuild following a poor season that saw them relegated from the Championship on the final day of the season.

Birmingham City are also looking for a new manager as part of their rebuilding process, following Tony Mowbray’s illness-related departure. The club is launching a thorough search for his successor, with contenders such as Alex Neil, Liam Rosenior, Frank Lampard, and Paul Heckingbottom, as well as countless more undisclosed managers, on their shortlist. The goal is to select a manager who can guide the squad to an instant return to the Championship.

The Blues’ rigorous management search and ambitious transfer market plan demonstrate their dedication to a quick turnaround and a successful season in League One. The purchase of Marc Leonard would not only strengthen their midfield, but would also signify their intention to compete in the league and fulfill their goal of automatic promotion.