Birmingham City pursues right-back reinforcements as squad gaps emerge under Davies

Birmingham City is actively exploring right-back options after questions arose over the future of current players Bright Osayi-Samuel and Ethan Laird, with manager Chris Davies acknowledging the need to address squad gaps. The Championship club has identified three potential candidates as it navigates a sluggish transfer window, with Davies suggesting reinforcements may arrive later in the off-season or even after the campaign begins.

Current Squad Status and Departures

BCFC has made limited progress in recruitment so far, bringing in three players: defender Dael Fry from Middlesbrough, goalkeeper James Beadle on loan from Brighton, and securing midfielder Jhon Solis on a permanent basis. However, the club has also experienced departures, with Japan international Kyogo Furuhashi moving to LA Galaxy and defender Kai Wagner joining Philadelphia Union in MLS. These outgoings have left gaps that Davies is working to address, though he acknowledged the World Cup's lingering effect on the market has created delays in finalisation of transfers.

Right-Back Reinforcement Options

Uncertainty surrounding existing right-back options has prompted targeted recruitment. Issa Kabore, a Manchester City player returning from an impressive loan spell with Wrexham, represents one option, offering athleticism and crossing ability at a higher level of competition. The Burkina Faso international combines technical pedigree with physical attributes suited to Championship demands. Hugo Siquet, a 24-year-old from the Belgian top division, provides an alternative for those willing to gamble on continental talent, bringing possession-focused abilities and athleticism without prior English football experience. Marlon Fossey, now 27 and captaining Standard Liege, has matured in a competitive league and offers both attacking intent and leadership qualities, with his contract extending to 2027 potentially making a move financially feasible.

Davies has indicated that other areas of the squad may take priority initially, though questions over Osayi-Samuel's potential move and Laird's injury history make right-back reinforcement prudent planning. Tomoki Iwata remains a depth option, though debate exists about whether that position optimises his abilities.

Broader Recruitment Outlook

Davies told BBC Radio WM that finalisation of several targets remains ongoing, with expectations that deals may be concluded only towards the end of pre-season or after the season has commenced. He also reported that midfielder Paik Seung-Ho is fit for upcoming fixtures, Laird has returned to training, and Phil Neumann is expected back this week. However, midfielder Taylor Gardner-Hickman sustained a leg injury during recent pre-season activity, with severity to be determined in the coming days.