Birmingham City turn attention to ex-Everton star in second League One hijack

Birmingham are reportedly attempting yet another swoop under the noses of Huddersfield, this time to sign Bristol Rovers attacking midfielder Antony Evans.

Blues completed the acquisition of Alfie May from Charlton Athletic on Tuesday, hijacking the striker away from Huddersfield after the Terriers were in advanced talks. May, last season’s League One top scorer with 23 goals, has joined Blues on a three-year contract.

Similar frustration for Huddersfield is expected again as Blues Focus reports Birmingham have made an offer to sign Evans from Bristol Rovers. The 25-year-old was the subject of a rejected bid from Huddersfield merely a few days ago – and Blues have eclipsed that offer.

Evans, an Everton academy product, scored 10 goals and made nine assists in 52 appearances across all competitions last season. His best campaign was in 2021/22 as he netted 11 times and set up 14 goals in 39 games, though that was predominantly in League Two.

Other clubs Evans has played for include Crewe Alexandra, Blackpool and Morecambe. There was also a year-long spell at German side SC Paderborn between January 2020 and January 2021, though only 10 appearances were accumulated.

Portsmouth could cause Birmingham trouble

On this occasion, it’s not just a League One transfer battle as Portsmouth are said to be interested in Evans. Pompey, promoted to the Championship as title winners, hold a serious interest in the midfielder.

Entering the last 12 months of his Rovers contract, Evans could be available for a cut-price fee. That said, the interest from Birmingham and Huddersfield could create somewhat of a bidding war.