Birmingham City 'begin' transfer battle with Sheffield Wednesday and Blackburn Rovers

Birmingham City have reportedly reignited their interest in Newcastle United midfielder Isaac Hayden following his loan recall from Belgian Pro League outfit Standard Liege.

Hayden was once a regular starter for Newcastle in the Premier League but has fallen out of favour in recent seasons, with injuries not helping his case. The 28-year-old, who only started nine league games for Standard, is expected to be loaned out to a Championship club for the rest of the campaign.

Football Insider reports Birmingham, Blackburn Rovers, Sheffield Wednesday and Plymouth Argyle are all keen on offering Hayden the game time he desires. Other English second-tier clubs are bound to rear their heads, too, with the defensive midfielder eager to reignite his career.

Tony Mowbray hasn't had long to assess his squad having arrived at Birmingham just a few days ago, but it was clear to see during Wayne Rooney's reign that a deep-lying midfielder is needed. Blues so often lose possession cheaply and Hayden could provide a little more security in that sense.

Not only that but the former England Under-21 international can play in an array of defensive positions, including centre-back and right-back. His versatility could come in handy, especially when the fixture congestion ramps up before the end of the season.