Birmingham City are approaching the conclusion of what has proven to be an exceptionally active January transfer window, with the imminent arrival of Carlos Vicente set to become the club's fifth acquisition this month.
Vicente Deal Nears Completion
The Spanish midfielder is currently finalising his move from Deportivo Alavés, joining fellow new recruits Kai Wagner, Jhon Solis, Ibrahim Osman and August Priske as manager Chris Davies strengthens his squad for the Championship campaign.
Defensive Reinforcement Priority
Despite the flurry of activity, Davies remains keen to add at least one more player before Monday's 7pm deadline, with a left-footed centre-back understood to be his primary target. The Blues boss has identified this as a crucial area for improvement, seeking to restore defensive balance after utilising Christoph Klarer in various positions across the back line this season.
Potential Attacking Additions
Beyond defensive reinforcements, Birmingham could explore additional attacking options should circumstances allow. The club have yet to secure a natural number ten this window, despite Davies actively searching for creative midfield options during the summer transfer period.
Interesting developments could emerge if Birmingham decide to move on one of their two recognised attacking midfielders, potentially creating space for a replacement signing in the final days of the window.
Outgoing Possibilities
While focusing on incomings, Birmingham have already facilitated departures for several players not central to Davies' plans, though some squad members remain in uncertain positions.
Players Facing Uncertain Futures
- Kanya Fujimoto: The Japanese playmaker has made just two substitute appearances since his summer arrival from Gil Vicente, with Davies willing to sanction a departure if the midfielder can secure alternative employment.
- Willum Willumsson: The Iceland international appears to have fallen out of favour, with his name mentioned during negotiations with Go Ahead Eagles for Alfons Sampsted, indicating Birmingham's openness to offers.
- Kyogo Furuhashi: The striker's situation presents particular intrigue, with his first-team opportunities diminishing following Priske's arrival despite recent goals against Sheffield Wednesday and Cambridge United.
Kyogo's Potential Departure
Furuhashi's fading World Cup ambitions with Japan, combined with increased competition for places, could prompt late-window developments. Celtic have previously shown interest in re-signing their former striker, while Swansea City are reportedly considering offering the 31-year-old a Championship lifeline.
However, any potential exit would likely require the player to initiate proceedings, as Davies appears generally satisfied with his current striking options despite the increased competition.
Left-Back Considerations
Davies hasn't completely ruled out addressing Birmingham's problematic left-back position, though the anticipated returns of Alex Cochrane and Lee Buchanan from injury might necessitate temporary solutions rather than permanent additions.
The Blues manager acknowledged the position's challenges last week but may need to navigate through existing options rather than pursuing further signings in this area.
Window Conclusion Approaches
As Monday's deadline looms, Birmingham City supporters await potential final moves in what has already been a transformative January window. The club's business reflects Davies' determination to shape a squad capable of meeting Championship challenges, with strategic additions complementing necessary departures.
The coming days will reveal whether further surprises await as Birmingham finalise their winter transfer activity, potentially reshaping the squad further before the window slams shut.
