Birmingham City have secured a significant coup with the acquisition of Spanish winger Carlos Vicente from Deportivo Alaves, marking their fifth signing of the January transfer window. The deal, reportedly valued at £7million, saw the Championship club outmanoeuvre European giants Ajax to secure the talented player's signature.
Davies Delighted with Vicente Capture
Blues manager Chris Davies expressed his delight at bringing Vicente to St Andrew's, highlighting the player's impressive credentials and the club's growing appeal. Vicente has already netted ten goals this season for Alaves, including five in La Liga, a statistic that has generated considerable excitement among the Birmingham faithful.
"I don't know how much was said or what you can say but there were some good European clubs playing in top competitions that wanted him," Davies commented. "It's one thing coming to England, it's another coming to the Championship, but it's because they can see the direction that the club's going in and believe in it."
Playing Style and Attributes
Davies provided detailed insight into Vicente's playing style, describing him as an intense, energetic winger who excels at making runs behind defences and delivering quality crosses. Predominantly operating on the right flank, Vicente offers a traditional wide threat, a characteristic Davies sees as a valuable asset.
"He's a right-footer that plays on the outside and crosses, that's a throwback because normally someone like Pat Roberts will often play off the right and invert onto the left foot," Davies explained. "Not many dribble on the outside but that's what he can do. He's played at a really good level in La Liga and is a well respected player in Spain."
Strategic Partnership with Priske
The signing of Vicente follows closely on the heels of Birmingham's capture of Danish striker August Priske. Davies is particularly enthusiastic about the potential partnership between the two new arrivals, envisioning Vicente's crossing ability complementing Priske's aerial prowess.
"He will put good crosses in and we've got someone like Priske in the building now who's a good size and good in the air so hopefully there's a link that can develop over time," Davies added, outlining a clear tactical plan for integrating both players into the squad.
Player's Enthusiasm and Integration
Davies also praised Vicente's personal qualities, noting his excellent command of English and his keen desire to join the Birmingham project. "When I met him I was very impressed, he speaks very good English and is very bright. He's really keen to be here and wanted to come. I think we've signed an exciting player," the manager concluded, expressing confidence that Vicente will adapt well to the team's attacking style of play.
