'On his way' - Birmingham City close in on transfer reunion with Sunderland star

Birmingham City are closing in on the signing of Sunderland midfielder Alex Pritchard.

Sky Sports reporter Lyall Thomas has stated that Pritchard is undergoing a medical ahead of a proposed move to St Andrew's. He will sign a two-and-a-half-year deal with Blues and will reunite with manager Tony Mowbray after working with him during his time in charge at the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland made the surprising decision to offer Pritchard a new contract in January, something of which they don't usually do as they decide players' futures in March and April where they have a clearer understanding as to what division they will be playing in next season.

Pritchard was left out of Sunderland's match-day squad against Stoke City at the weekend after informing the Wearside club of his decision. A club statement read: "On Friday morning, Alex Pritchard informed the club that he was no longer available for selection and he subsequently withdrew from today’s match day squad.

"The midfielder also expressed his desire to leave SAFC with immediate effect. The club will be making no further comment at this moment in time."

The 30-year-old will now be given his wish as he moves across the Championship to the Midlands. It was reported earlier this month that Colorado Rapids and Sivasspor had held an interest but it is Birmingham City who have won the race. He departs having made 25 appearances in all competitions this term for Sunderland with five assists and one goal. Sunderland are the club that he has played the most games of his career at with 25 assists and nine goals.

Pritchard represent the third signing of the window, and is the one of three midfielders to make the move this month - with Jordan James now set to remain. Andre Dozzell arrived from league rivals QPR on loan whilst Paik Seung-ho finalised his move earlier this week.