Birmingham City move ahead of Wrexham and Plymouth Argyle in transfer race

Birmingham City are reportedly nearing the signing of Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Marc Leonard on a permanent transfer.

The central midfielder certainly hasn’t been short of interest as Championship clubs Sheffield United, Cardiff City, Plymouth Argyle, Oxford United and Preston North End have been linked. Wrexham, newcomers to League One for next campaign but targeting an immediate promotion, have also been in the mix.

But Birmingham have seemingly moved ahead of every other potential suitor. The Mirror reports Blues are “closing in” on signing Leonard from Brighton for merely £450,000. The midfielder recently impressed during two consecutive seasons on loan at Northampton Town, becoming a fan favourite at Sixfields Stadium.

Leonard an excellent signing for Birmingham

Blues securing a deal for Leonard would continue the excellent start to the transfer window. The seven-time Scotland Under-21 international, still just 22 years of age, was incredibly reliable for a Northampton side that comfortably survived relegation despite being tipped for the drop last term.

Capable of playing in a variety of central midfield roles, Leonard, who scored five and assisted six last campaign, would offer great versatility for Chris Davies to utilise. Not missing a single league minute last season was also mightily impressive, proving his reliability and consistency in the third tier.

If signed, Leonard will become the third, fourth or fifth signing of the summer as two other deals are reportedly close. Dutch central defender Mike Eerdhuijzen is said to be nearing a move from Sparta Rotterdam, while Charlton Athletic striker Alfie May has completed his medical.