Birmingham City have under a fortnight to finalise their squad ahead of the transfer deadline on Tuesday, 1 September. While the club’s signings so far appear well thought out, there remain areas that need strengthening to bolster Chris Davies’ side.
To date, six players have arrived at St Andrew’s, each reflecting a clear strategic purpose. Goalkeeper James Beadle has rejoined to reprise the role he had last season, with hopes of further improvement. Meanwhile, Jhon Solis has become a full-time Birmingham player, contributing in a similar capacity.
Defensively, Dael Fry has arrived to replace Jonathan Panzo, providing Championship experience and physical presence to the centre-back position. Forward Luis Vazquez is expected to support and challenge August Priske, arguably the team’s most vital player. The addition of Kristoffer Lund compensates for the departure of Kai Wagner, while Max Bird has been signed on a permanent basis, stepping into the role previously filled on loan by Tommy Doyle.
READ MORE: Charities warn against cutting Universal Credit health support for young claimants
READ MORE: DWP introduces new free school meals eligibility and annual rechecks from September 2026
Despite these signings addressing several squad deficiencies, significant gaps remain, particularly at left wing and the No. 10 playmaker position. Ibrahim Osman’s return to Brighton, coupled with his impressive pre-season form, has complicated efforts to secure his services. Fabian Hurzeler’s position in Brighton’s squad, considering their UEFA Conference League campaign, further reduces Osman’s likely first-team opportunities.
Manager Fabian Hurzeler has commented, “I’m also impressed by him (Osman) so far, so let’s wait how this continues and then we make the best decision for him and for the club.”
Furthermore, Demarai Gray showed promising form over the summer before picking up a slight injury, reigniting concerns over his fitness given previous injury struggles. Birmingham City require strong competition for first-team places, ideally from a player like Osman-even on loan-but certainly someone who brings the physical attributes that a 21-year-old winger provided last season.
The situation is even more precarious in the No. 10 role, where Paik Seung-ho has filled in during the opening two matches. While this has offered defensive solidity on the road, it may draw criticism for tactical conservatism at home. Once fully fit, Gray’s return would allow Jay Stansfield to play as a No. 10 or second striker behind August Priske, yet his fitness remains uncertain for a considerable portion of the season.
The club is actively searching for a dedicated No. 10, particularly with Marvin Ducksch and Kanya Fujimoto-last season’s options in that position-potentially departing. Ducksch, whose future has been the subject of speculation all summer, appeared ill-suited to the Championship last year, concerns likely to be heightened as the club adopts a more direct, physical style this season. Fujimoto has yet to demonstrate he can convincingly perform at Championship level.
Regarding incoming transfers, reports of a double signing from Ashton Gate involving Scott Twine, a former Bristol City teammate of Max Bird, have been denied by BirminghamLive. Similarly, there have been no further developments in the interest for Sporting Gijón attacking midfielder César Gelabert. The club’s priority is to find a No. 10 physically capable of handling the demands of the English second tier.
Additional squad changes could arise if players leave, with Blackburn Rovers boss Tony Mowbray reportedly interested in reuniting Sunderland-themed teammates by acquiring Patrick Roberts. Earlier in 2026, Roberts had impressed enough for Birmingham to consider making his loan permanent, but currently, he struggles for game time. His potential departure would necessitate signing a replacement or a competitor for Carlos Vicente’s position.
Meanwhile, fringe players such as Scott Wright and Lee Buchanan will seek regular football to regain momentum, with new loans manager Darren Carter working to place promising Under-21 talents higher up the football pyramid.
With just under two weeks remaining, Birmingham City face a busy period as they work to complete their squad and prepare for the challenges ahead.