Birmingham City hope to beat several other teams to former Celtic star

Birmingham City have reportedly entered the race to sign in-demand Brest forward Karamoko Dembele.

According to Alan Nixon, a journalist for The Sun, Dembele fancies life in the Championship, but he could be convinced to link up with his brother Siriki. The Rams 'hope' to beat the Blues but there are other teams interested.

Dembele has just come off the back of an impressive loan spell at Blackpool in what was his regular run of gams in a full season of club football. At Bloomfield Road, he notched up 14 assists and nine goals and swept up the prizes at their end of season dinner, having played in a side that finished eighth in the league last term.

All of this summer, the 21-year-old has had transfer speculation, with Championship and Premier League clubs discussed, and most recently League One. The likes of Everton, West Ham, Nottingham Forest, Brentford, Southampton, Leeds United, Middlesbrough and Sheffield Wednesday have all been linked with the ex-Blackpool player in recent months.

Despite being contracted until 2026, Dembele's future seemingly lies away from French club Brest. They will compete in this season's Champions League, but the winger will play no part. At this stage, a permanent departure seems most likely, but Brest will still command a fee.

As for Siriki who is six years older than him, he has been linked with moves to Blackburn Rovers and Swansea City, with some unnamed Championship clubs also making enquiries.

Speaking on Saturday, head coach Chris Davies said: "“He’s been working hard and been disciplined in the role I want him to do out there, trying to hold his position, time his movements, and then work hard without the ball. I’ve been really pleased with him.

"Obviously we have other wingers and competition for places, so it’s important they all feel that. Siriki was disciplined and did well today.”