Krystian Bielik’s call and Jordan James’ inevitability: Birmingham City’s transfer situation

Birmingham City have lots to do in the summer transfer window after relegation to League One for the first time in three decades

Krystian Bielik returned to Poland earlier this week, with a decision to make. Does he take the plunge and play for Birmingham City in League One, or does he look for a move?

The Blues benefited the previous time Bielik was relegated to League One with Derby County, two years ago. Bielik, who wanted to stay in contention for a place in Poland’s World Cup squad, refused to drop down a level and joined the Blues on loan. That move became permanent last summer after Derby failed to earn promotion on their maiden attempt.

Bielik now finds himself in the same situation, with two years left on his contract. The main difference this time is that no World Cup will be held this year or next. Poland’s next international competition is likely to be the 2026 World Cup, by which time Bielik might have played another season in the Championship with Blues, assuming all goes as planned.

Jordan James’s seas are clearer. The eight-goal midfielder drew interest in January, and the Blues will battle to retain him this summer.

After forcing his way into Wales’ starting lineup, James, 19, is unlikely to spend a season in League One. An Adam Wharton-esque number might be pushing it, but there’s no reason Blues can’t get a good price for James.

Ethan Laird, Paik Seung-ho, Koji Miyoshi, and Juninho Bacuna must also decide if they can handle a season in League One. While there is no doubt that Blues have players capable of excelling in the Championship, it would be encouraging to see some accept responsibility for relegation and commit to helping the team get out of League One.

Lee Buchanan has four years left on his contract and would be an excellent League One player, but if Tony Mowbray returns as manager, he will most likely go. Mowbray and his assistant, Mark Venus, used Buchanan sparingly and rated others higher.

The managerial situation is the most important component in the Blues’ summer recruitment. It is difficult to envisage anyone joining the club before Mowbray’s situation is clarified. Until that is resolved, we are all in limbo.

Mowbray’s absence has not prevented technical director Craig Gardner and the club’s recruitment team from scouting potential candidates. Lists have been set out, and Knighthead will offer the Blues with the best budget in League One.

In some situations, Blues players may earn Championship wages. The majority of next season’s opponents will be unable to compete with that.

If Mowbray returns, we may assume he will have a significant say in recruitment. The manager gave the green light to January acquisitions Andre Dozzell, Paik Seung-ho, and Alex Pritchard.