Free agent forwards Birmingham City could sign this summer
It’s uncertain who will be Birmingham City’s manager next season, but one thing is sure for Blues. They will need to sign a striker this summer.
With the release of Scott Hogan, Jay Stansfield returning to Fulham, and the uncertain future of Lukas Jutkiewicz, Birmingham have a glaring problem.
While Tyler Roberts could step up to the plate, at least one more striker should be signed by Birmingham, providing competition for Roberts in a gruelling League One season.
The type of manager Birmingham employs will dictate what type of transfer they look to make, but here are some names to be mindful of.
Kayden Jackson
News emerged yesterday that Kayden Jackson would depart Ipswich Town at the end of his current deal, news that should pique the interest of many EFL clubs.
Jackson played his part in Ipswich’s historic season, mostly making substitute appearances as the Tractor Boys secured a return to the top flight after 22 years away.
Last season, the 30-year-old scored three goals and made five assists, but will be looking for regular starts as he reaches his prime years.
While his numbers may not be the best, Jackson plays a crucial role for the team, featuring either as a striker or a winger.
Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna, regarded now as one of the best coaches in the country, played Jackson frequently. And if he deemed Jackson good enough to feature in a combined 81 games over the last two seasons, then he could certainly do a job in League One for Birmingham.
Tyrese Campbell
Firstly, best wishes to Tyrese Campbell’s dad, Kevin, who is said to be ‘very unwell’ in hospital.
After eight years at Stoke City, Campbell’s contract will be up this summer, making him a free agent.
The 24-year-old, much like Jackson, will be hungry for first-team minutes. And having featured in 30% of Stoke’s starting elevens in the Championship last season, Campbell will want to raise that number next season.
Dropping to League One might improve his chances of starting more games, and goals in his final two matches for Stoke would have boosted his confidence. Plus, Campbell’s last spell in League One proved fruitful, scoring five times in 15 games for Shrewsbury Town as a teenager.
Devante Cole
From one son of an iconic Premier League striker to another, Devante Cole will be looking for a new club this summer.
Devante, son of Andy, was a key member of Barnsley’s squad last season.
The 29-year-old played 49 games for the Tykes last season, and opposite to Jackson and Campbell, Cole was scoring goals frequently.
A tally of 18 goals is not to be sniffed at, especially in League One, where Birmingham will be playing their football next season.
Cole offers something dynamic up front, but will Cole be able to lead the line without a strike partner because this is the system Blues will most likely operate with next season?
Andy Cole had a short stint at Blues in 2007, so will his son follow in his footsteps?
