Birmingham City are being linked with a January move to sign Newcastle United's promising young midfielder, Alfie Harrison, as manager Chris Davies looks to strengthen his squad for the second half of the season.
Who is Alfie Harrison?
The 20-year-old joined Newcastle from Manchester City in a deal worth a reported seven-figure fee, potentially up to £3.5 million, nearly two years ago. Harrison was highly regarded at City, where he regularly scored and created goals at under-18s level, establishing himself as one of the country's top teenage prospects.
However, since his move to St. James' Park, he has primarily featured for the club's under-21s side and has been unable to break into Eddie Howe's first-team plans. He has watched as other academy products have been included in matchday squads, including for the Champions League.
Why a Move is Likely
According to reports, including from the Daily Mail, an exit from Tyneside is now on the cards for Harrison this month. The Blues have been named as a potential suitor for the player, who is out of contract at the end of the current season.
Our colleagues at ChronicleLive state: "Newcastle are getting interest from Birmingham for Harrison." They note that the Magpies could secure a small fee for him now, or risk losing him for nothing in the summer, with a number of clubs in England and abroad said to be monitoring his situation.
January Transfer Context
Harrison is reportedly one of several players who could leave Newcastle this window, with captain Jamaal Lascelles linked with a move to Turkey and youngster Ben Parkinson heading to Falkirk.
For Birmingham City, securing a talent like Harrison would represent a significant coup as they aim to bolster their midfield options. His pedigree from the academies of both Manchester City and Newcastle United marks him out as a player with considerable potential, should he secure regular first-team football.
The coming weeks will be crucial to see if Birmingham can finalise a deal for the Yorkshire-born midfielder before the transfer window closes.
