Birmingham City make ‘positive step’ towards Leeds United transfer but Luton Town plan shock bid

Birmingham City are reportedly close to completing their first acquisition of the summer transfer window as an agreement is nearing for Leeds United ace Tyler Roberts.

The forward, who spent last season on loan at Blues’ divisional rivals Queens Park Rangers, has become surplus to requirements at Elland Road.

This is even despite Leeds being at threat of losing a number of key players following their relegation from the Premier League to the Sky Bet Championship.

The Athletic reports “positive discussions over a fee and a deal including add-ons” have taken place between Birmingham and Leeds, with Roberts “poised to complete a switch”.

Roberts hasn’t featured in any competition for the Lilywhites since March 2022 and has scored just nine goals in 101 league appearances since signing in 2020.

He joined the Yorkshire outfit for a fee in the region of £2.5 million from West Bromwich Albion but never quite lived up to expectations.

The versatile attacker is still just 24 years of age, however, and has seen injuries stump his progress so far in his career. A fresh opportunity could give him a new lease of life.

Birmingham are in need of a striker as captain Troy Deeney will depart St Andrew’s upon the expiry of his contract on June 30. Lukas Jutkiewicz is also approaching his retirement.

Meanwhile, Luton line up surprise Chong approach

In other news, Blues may soon receive a surprise bid from newly-promoted Premier League side Luton Town for former energetic midfielder Tahith Chong.

Football Insider claims the Hatters have “made a move” to sign the former Manchester United man by contacting Birmingham to “enquire about the winger”.

Chong, who has had a terrific impact after signing on a permanent deal following an initial loan spell, cost Blues around £1.5 million. His contract runs until June 2026.