Birmingham City secure loan move for West Ham defender Emmanuel Longelo

Birmingham City have confirmed the signing of Emmanuel Longelo on a season-long loan from West Ham United.

John Eustace’s side completed the signing of the 21-year-old before their 2-1 loss to Norwich City on Tuesday evening, but there wasn’t enough time to register him for the game.

The temporary move will be this first away from the Hammers having played predominantly for their youth teams.

Longelo made his debut for West Ham’s first team in their 5-1 League Cup third round win over Hull City in September 2020, and has since featured for the club in the Europa League.

Though a full-back, he began his career as a midfielder and also operated in forward positions in the Hammers’ youth ranks.

Speaking to Birmingham’s official website after sealing his loan move to St Andrew’s, Longelo gave an insight as to what Blues fans can expect from him this campaign.

"I am buzzing to join such a big club like Birmingham and help them push on in the Championship. This is a good league and a good experience for me.

"I am here to play games and get experience as well. To come to a team like Birmingham, it will help me develop a lot. I am very, very excited to be here.

"I have got pace and a bit of flair, I can also defend, so I have a bit of everything. I have come here to prove myself."

The 21-year-old could be in contention to make his debut for Eustace’s men when they travel to Deepdale to take on Preston North End on Saturday afternoon, kick-off is 3pm.

Longelo became Birmingham’s sixth loan signing this summer after the arrivals of Hannibal Mejbri, Krystian Bielik, Auston Trusty, Przemysław Płacheta and Dion Sanderson.