Birmingham eye Samaras

Birmingham City are moving a step closer to a move for Greek striker Georgios Samaras from Man City. Alex McLeish is looking for transfer reinforcements this month and the former Heerenveen man could be his number one target.

The 22-year-old has managed only 12 goals in 65 appearances since joining City for £6m from Heerenveen in January 2006 and was heavily criticised by fans for his performances in the closing stages of Stuart Pearce’s reign. Earlier in the season, Sven-Goran Eriksson suggested Samaras might be granted a second chance - “It’s a mistake to think he has no future with us,” said City’s manager - although there is no doubt the forward will be sold if a suitable offer is received.

Both Charlton and Coventry are also believed to be keen on signing Samaras, albeit on loan, but the Greek would prefer to remain in the Premier League, something he made clear in the summer when Middlesbrough were close to agreeing a deal before the transfer deadline.