It might be a crucial window for Birmingham City this summer.
This season has clearly not gone as planned, and with the club in relegation danger, Tom Wagner must be prepared to address some of the difficulties facing the Blues during the next window, regardless of the division they finish up in next season.
It is evident that certain players must leave, while others must be bought to replace those who will either leave at the conclusion of their contracts or leave when their loan arrangements at St Andrew’s expire.
Many variables worked in Birmingham’s favor last summer, as they were able to get some decent permanent acquisitions, but the money may be tighter this summer, particularly if Jordan James remains in the Midlands beyond the conclusion of the window.
They could still enjoy a very successful transfer period in the summer though – and we take a look at a potential dream transfer window for Blues.
In: Cody Drameh signs permanently from Leeds United
Cody Drameh has been a good loan acquisition for the Blues, recording a lot of assists.
He’s clearly someone who could assist the club move up a division in the next season or two.
Unfortunately, he is only on loan from Leeds United at the moment, but it would be difficult to envisage him as a regular starter at Elland Road next season.
With this in mind, the Blues should try to secure a permanent deal if possible.
In: Aynsley Pears joins from Blackburn Rovers
With John Ruddy and Neil Etheridge’s contracts expiring at the end of the season, it appears that St Andrew’s will need to hire at least one goalkeeper this summer.
Aynsley Pears, who presently plays for Blackburn Rovers and has some experience at this level, is apparently coveted by the Blues.
Birmingham would need to pay a fee for him, but Tony Mowbray (who has already worked with Pears) may assist get the deal done.
In: Birmingham City beat Sheffield Wednesday to Leeds United’s Ian Poveda
Ian Poveda is currently on loan at Sheffield Wednesday, and the club could make a bid for him this summer.
The current Leeds player, who has been vital for the Owls, will have his contract at Elland Road expire at the end of the 2023/24 season.
It is expected that he will not be handed a new contract in West Yorkshire, which could open the door for Birmingham to sign him.
They were mentioned in the TEAMtalk report as a possible destination.
Out: Tyler Roberts secures loan exit
Roberts has spent much of the season on the sidelines, but he has made a few outings recently.
Unfortunately, the attacking midfielder has failed to make a significant impact in front of goal.
With Birmingham unlikely to receive a fee for him this summer due to his lack of influence, a loan exit may be a more plausible alternative.
He could thrive on loan next season, returning in time for the 2025/26 season.
Out: Emmanuel Longelo leaves Birmingham City permanently
Longelo’s time at St Andrew’s hasn’t gone well, and with Lee Buchanan available as a replacement, it’s unlikely that the ex-West Ham player will see much game time for the Midlands club in the long run.
With this in mind, a sale might help the club earn funds and bring in a new fullback.
It is unclear whether the Blues will be able to move him permanently, but they should attempt to cash in if possible.
