Birmingham City have reportedly initiated their first move to secure the signing of Alaves winger Carlos Vicente before the January transfer deadline.
Blues Make Contact for La Liga Attacker
According to reports from Spain, the Championship club have already made contact with Alaves regarding a potential deal for the 26-year-old forward. This development, credited to journalist Matteo Moretto, indicates a renewed interest from Birmingham, who were also linked with Vicente during the summer transfer window.
The pursuit comes after a proposed move for Mjallby attacker Abdoulie Manneh collapsed, prompting the Blues to switch their focus. Manager Chris Davies is under pressure to improve results following a difficult start to the season, and adding a proven goal threat is seen as a priority.
Vicente's Profile and Potential Impact
Carlos Vicente, valued at approximately €7 million (£6m) by Transfermarkt, has emerged as a clinical performer in Spain's top flight. This season, he has found the net nine times and provided three assists in 23 appearances for Alaves.
His form follows a solid 2023/24 campaign where he contributed five goals and five assists in La Liga. A relative late bloomer, Vicente first made his mark in the Spanish third tier with CD Calahorra during the 2021/22 season.
If a deal can be agreed, Vicente could be thrust straight into the starting lineup at St Andrew's @ Knighthead Park. The injury to key winger Demarai Gray, who is sidelined until February at the earliest, has created an immediate need for a player of his profile on the flank.
Deal Hinges on Club and Player Agreement
While Birmingham have taken the initial step, several hurdles remain. It is unclear whether Alaves are willing to sell this month and what their final asking price would be. Furthermore, the player's personal willingness to move to the English second tier is yet to be established.
Despite these uncertainties, the club's hierarchy is actively working behind the scenes. Davies had publicly committed to signing a new winger following the departure of Keshi Anderson, confirming that new arrivals are a certainty this January.
The coming days will be crucial as Birmingham City look to finalise what would be a significant and exciting piece of transfer business for their supporters.
