Birmingham City may be poised to recoup funds from a significant signing who has struggled to make an impact at St Andrew's, as interest emerges from the Dutch top flight.
Willumsson's Birmingham Stint Nears Potential End
Icelandic international midfielder Willum Willumsson appears increasingly likely to exit Birmingham City during the current winter transfer window. The 27-year-old arrived with considerable promise in July 2024 from Dutch club Go Ahead Eagles, with Blues investing approximately £3.5 million in his signature.
However, Willumsson's time in the West Midlands has not unfolded as anticipated. Following a mixed 2024/25 campaign that featured both promising spells and periods of anonymous form, his fortunes have declined further this season.
Diminished Role and Growing Speculation
The midfielder has been restricted to just ten Championship appearances during the current campaign, failing to register a single goal or assist in England's second tier. This represents a stark contrast to his previous season in League One, where he contributed six goals and six assists across 41 matches as a regular starter.
Under manager Chris Davies, Willumsson has slipped considerably down the pecking order, prompting speculation about his future. The growing consensus suggests a change is necessary, with a loan move potentially offering a route to rebuild confidence. However, questions remain about his long-term prospects at the club.
Dutch Interest Emerges as Possible Solution
Several European clubs have been monitoring Willumsson's situation, with a return to the Eredivisie now appearing a genuine possibility. Dutch publication De Gelderlander reports that NEC Nijmegen are actively exploring a move for the midfielder.
The report indicates NEC 'want to strengthen their midfield with Willumsson' and are seriously considering a swoop. This potential return to the Netherlands could represent an opportunity for the player to rediscover his form, given his previous success in the league.
During his initial spell in Dutch football, Willumsson demonstrated his capabilities with 15 goals and five assists across 58 Eredivisie appearances. The key questions now centre on transfer fees and Birmingham's willingness to negotiate.
Financial Considerations and Birmingham's Stance
It remains unclear what financial package NEC Nijmegen might propose, or whether Birmingham would entertain a permanent departure. Should Blues opt to sell, there is uncertainty about whether they would accept a loss on their initial investment, or insist on recouping a similar fee to the £3.5 million paid eighteen months ago.
Birmingham's Active Transfer Window Continues
Despite Willumsson's potential departure, Birmingham City remain active in the transfer market as they pursue promotion ambitions. Currently positioned thirteenth in the Championship, Davies' side trail the play-off places by five points but maintain belief in mounting a late challenge.
The club has demonstrated significant activity during the winter window, continuing their recent pattern of investment. Birmingham have secured three permanent signings totalling over £14 million:
- Left-back Kai Wagner from Philadelphia Union
- Centre-forward August Priske from Djurgardens
- Right winger Carlos Vicente from Alaves
Additionally, Blues have completed two loan acquisitions:
- Central midfielder Jhon Solis from Girona
- Winger Ibrahim Osman from Brighton & Hove Albion
The departure of Lewis Koumas, who has returned to Liverpool after an abbreviated loan spell, has created another available loan slot. With the transfer deadline approaching on February 2, Birmingham's recruitment team led by Davies and Craig Gardner may yet pursue further reinforcements as they aim to bolster their promotion push.
