Birmingham City handed boost in pursuit of 'integral' target in blow to Championship rivals

Birmingham City transfer target Alex Pritchard is highly unlikely to accept a new contract offered by his current club Sunderland, with the terms reportedly unconvincing.

The Sunderland Echo, one of our sister publications, reports Pritchard's future is in doubt despite Sunderland's best efforts to extend his contract. Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has confirmed a deal was offered but Pritchard is yet to accept and it's claimed he's unlikely to.

Birmingham will be licking their lips at this progression as Pritchard is a major target for Tony Mowbray. Having worked with the playmaker throughout his entire stay at the Stadium of Light, Blues' new manager knows exactly what he can expect.

Bluenoses shouldn't get too excited overly quickly, however, as it's stated Pritchard's preference is still to stay at Sunderland. Whether or not the Black Cats offer more acceptable terms awaits be seen, though, which is a big plus for Birmingham.

Pritchard, who turns 31 in May, has played just 44 per cent of the minutes available to him in the Sky Bet Championship this season. A promise of more increased game time could be enough to convince the midfielder to make the move to St Andrew's. That said, he has been an integral part of Michael Beale's plans so far.

Blues aren't the only ones circling, with teams in Major League Soccer (MLS) and the Turkish Süper Lig keen on a move. Pritchard's Sunderland contract expires in June, meaning any new club would be getting themselves a free hit.