The arrival of winger Ibrahim Osman at Birmingham City has created an immediate selection headache for manager Chris Davies, forcing the club into a crucial transfer decision this January.
The Loan Limit Conundrum
Birmingham City have now exceeded the Championship's regulations for loan players in a matchday squad following the completion of Osman's temporary switch from Brighton & Hove Albion. The Ghanaian's move, confirmed on 19 January 2026, was activated after his previous loan at French side Auxerre was terminated early.
Osman becomes the sixth loanee at St Andrew's, joining goalkeeper James Beadle, midfielders Tommy Doyle and Jhon Solis, winger Patrick Roberts, and forward Lewis Koumas. EFL rules state that Championship clubs can only name a maximum of five loan players in their matchday squad, leaving Blues in a clear breach of the regulations.
Two Possible Solutions for Blues
The club's hierarchy, led by manager Chris Davies, now has two clear paths to resolve the issue before the end of the current transfer window.
The first and preferred option is to convert Patrick Roberts' loan from Sunderland into a permanent transfer. Davies confirmed this is a active possibility, stating: "I know those conversations are taking place and we are hopeful, but there are a few parts of that that have to work. That would be ideal." Securing Roberts on a full-time basis would free up a loan slot immediately.
The alternative, and perhaps more straightforward solution, would be to terminate the loan of 20-year-old Lewis Koumas from Liverpool. The young forward's future has been uncertain, with it recently revealed that Liverpool's option to recall him has been extended. All parties are currently assessing his playing prospects as the window draws to a close.
Impact on a Busy Transfer Window
This dilemma adds another layer to what has been an extremely active January for Birmingham City's recruitment team. The signing of Osman was pursued to address a lack of wide options, but it has inadvertently triggered a necessary squad adjustment.
As the situation stands, Birmingham City cannot legally field all their current loan players together. This forces the club's hand into making a swift move, with the permanent signing of Roberts appearing to be the most favourable outcome for Davies, who is keen to retain the experienced attacker.
The resolution of this issue will be a key piece of business before the transfer deadline, ensuring Blues are compliant with league rules and can fully utilise their strengthened squad for the second half of the Championship campaign.
