Newcastle United are reportedly preparing to offload a midfielder to Birmingham City during the January transfer window as Blues continue to strengthen their squad.
Birmingham have already made one addition this month and head coach Chris Davies is said to be targeting at least two more signings, including a player from the Premier League. The club began their winter business by recruiting Philadelphia Union left wing-back Kai Wagner, who has made an instant impression. Wagner registered an assist on his Championship debut against Coventry City before scoring in the FA Cup victory over Cambridge United.
While Wagner looks to be a shrewd addition, Birmingham’s recruitment drive is far from complete. Reports also suggest that Mjällby winger Abdoulie Manneh is close to joining the club, with the 21-year-old Gambia international expected to sign a long-term deal.
Birmingham linked with Newcastle midfielder
With the left side of the pitch seemingly addressed, attention has now turned to central midfield. According to the Daily Mail, Birmingham are interested in Newcastle United youngster Alfie Harrison, with the Magpies willing to sanction his departure this month.
The report adds that Jamaal Lascelles is closing in on a move to Turkey, Ben Parkinson is set for Falkirk, and Harrison could follow them out of St James’ Park. Newcastle paid around £3.5 million to sign Harrison in February 2024, but the 20-year-old has yet to make a senior competitive appearance under Eddie Howe.
Harrison’s contract expires at the end of the season, meaning Newcastle could either cash in now for a small fee or risk losing him for nothing in the summer. Chronicle Live reports that Birmingham are among several clubs monitoring the situation, with interest also coming from elsewhere in England and abroad.
Despite his lack of first-team exposure, Harrison has impressed at youth level. Primarily a defensive or central midfielder but also capable of playing further forward, he has recorded five goals and 15 assists in 55 appearances for Newcastle’s U21 side. He also progressed rapidly through the club’s academy after scoring three goals in three games for the U18s.
Before his move to Tyneside, Harrison enjoyed a productive spell with Manchester City’s U18s, registering 14 goals and eight assists in 31 matches.
A low-risk move for Blues?
If Birmingham were to secure Harrison, the financial risk would be minimal given his contract situation. While he is unlikely to make an immediate impact at senior level, the midfielder is viewed as a player with significant long-term potential.
With promotion the immediate priority, Birmingham are also looking to future-proof their squad — and Harrison could represent a smart investment for the seasons ahead.
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