Following a season that fell short of promotion, Birmingham City’s manager Chris Davies is targeting experienced Championship players to strengthen the squad ahead of the next campaign.
Last term, the Blues narrowly missed out on their play-off ambitions. With the play-offs now extended to include up to eighth place, Davies is eager to field a side capable of breaking into this crucial zone and pushing for promotion.
The success story of Hull City offers a blueprint. Last summer, Hull constructed their squad primarily with players seasoned in Championship football, which propelled them to an impressive sixth-place finish, defying many predictions. Players like John Egan, Semi Ajayi, and Kieran Dowell brought vital experience and resilience, having all been part of previous promotion-winning squads.
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In contrast, Birmingham City’s squad last season included very few players with proven Championship success, such as Patrick Roberts and fringe players Jack Robinson and Tommy Doyle. With relegated Leicester City holding the record for players with the least Championship experience, it’s clear that Birmingham must inject more proven quality this summer.
Here are seven free agents who fit Chris Davies’ criteria, offering the blend of experience and quality needed for the challenge ahead:
Goalkeeper | Age: 26
Illan Meslier looks set to leave Leeds United after seven years. A two-time Championship winner and a 2023/24 Team of the Year pick, Meslier boasts strong credentials, despite limited playing time this season and some high-profile mistakes in the past. With Birmingham needing a new number one, he remains a compelling option.
Midfielder | Age: 31
Jeff Hendrick embodies the tough, ball-playing midfielder ideal for the Championship. Having featured heavily for Burnley over the last two seasons and recorded a promotion with them, Hendrick brings both skill and durability—qualities Birmingham had previously assessed when he left Stoke City.
Midfielder | Age: 24
Jonny Neil is arguably the premier free agent in the Championship arena. Having helped Sunderland and Ipswich Town achieve promotions recently, Neil combines goal-scoring ability from midfield with the vision to direct attacking play, making him highly sought after.
Midfielder | Age: 29
Jairo Riedewald’s release by Sheffield United took many by surprise. The Dutchman impressed in his 20 starts and five substitute appearances following a midseason move last year. His ball control, tactical nous, and physicality make him a valuable Championship asset—qualities Davies witnessed firsthand during Birmingham’s matches against Sheffield United.
Forward | Age: 29
Freddie Chaplin’s recent Championship form has been mixed. Despite a disappointing loan at Portsmouth with just two goals in 37 games, he rebounded at Ipswich with 13 goals and eight assists last season, securing another promotion. While his style mirrors that of Jay Stansfield, Chaplin could provide Birmingham with much-needed creativity in an attacking midfield or second striker role.
Striker | Age: 27
Taiwo Maja is in contract talks with West Bromwich Albion but no agreement is guaranteed. His goal record improved significantly in 2024/25 with 12 goals in 26 games, though he mostly appeared off the bench. Previously linked with Birmingham, Maja remains an intriguing striker option for the club.
Striker | Age: 34
Callum Wilson, despite being in the twilight of his career, continues to find the net regularly, particularly for West Ham in the Premier League. Although he is reported to have verbally agreed a new deal, nothing is confirmed, and if available, Wilson would bring valuable Premier League experience and proven goal-scoring ability to Birmingham’s front line.
By targeting such players, Birmingham City’s management aims to blend Championship know-how with fresh energy, building a squad ready to make the leap towards promotion.