Birmingham move for duo

Birmingham are set to sign Everton striker James McFadden and Hibernian left-back David Murphy.

Hibs have given Birmingham permission to speak to Murphy.

Birmingham manager Alex McLeish has already had a £3m bid rejected by Everton for McFadden, as they value the striker at £5m plus. However it is understood that negotiations are being made.

Birmingham's desire to sign McFadden has been welcomed by Blue's player Garry O'Connor.

"James McFadden is an unbelievable talent," he said. "If we could manage to lure him to Birmingham then he would be a fantastic signing.

"He has worked for the gaffer before and to get him here would be great because he's top class.

"If he came here he would score goals, as he has already done in the Premier League, and at national level, and he would be a great success and help the team.

"Hopefully the gaffer will make a few more signings. If we bring players in and keep playing like we did at Arsenal, then I think we will be fine."