Chris Davies responds to Leeds United and Sheffield United transfer speculation

The South Korean, one of Blues’ most impressive players so far this season, was linked with a move away to an array of Championship clubs in the summer.

Among those understood to be interested were Leeds United and Sheffield United, both gunning for promotion to the Premier League. Such a step up could have provided a superb platform for Paik to progress his career but Birmingham were determined to keep him at the club - and the player is committed to the project.

Interest from elsewhere remains but Davies has assured Paik has a long future at the club. “There would have definitely been interest in him but I was very consistent all along that he was going to be a key player this season and in future years,” the head coach told Birmingham Live.

“He’s an excellent player and an excellent character. In my mind there was no real threat of losing him. He has been excellent so far and needs to maintain those standards,” Davies said.

Paik has made 27 appearances for Birmingham to date since signing on a free transfer in January. The 17-time South Korea international, contracted to Blues until June 2026, has turned out to be a tremendous coup so far and will only get better as he moves into his prime.

Now 27 years of age, Paik can play in several midfield roles and he’s become one of the first names on the team sheet alongside Tomoki Iwata, who joined from Celtic on deadline day. The pair have formed a formidable partnership, without doubt the best in League One and perhaps just as strong as those at top-end Championship sides.

The message from Birmingham to Leeds and Sheffield United, then? Hands off.