Zarate to Birmingham

Birmingham look to have signed Mauro Zarate from Al Sadd of Qatar on a season-long loan with a view to a permanent deal. The 20 year old Argentinian is to join in time to play for McLeish's side against Chelsea at the weekend.

"Al Sadd club received an offer from the Premier League club Birmingham City to seek the service of the club's Argentina star Mauro Zarate on loan from January until end of the season with a possible ultimate transfer," read a statement on the club's official website.

"Al Sadd club has no objection to accept the offer. The club would announce a final decision within the forthcoming few days."