Birmingham City set sights on ‘huge signing’ after missing out on Rangers-bound Oliver Antman

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Birmingham City have had a very strong summer, and they are showing no signs of slowing down.

Ever since the conclusion of their record-breaking League One campaign, full focus has been on building a squad capable of not just competing in the Championship, but challenging at the very top of the division.

Tom Brady has explained the club’s goals for this season as Blues reward loyal supporters with season ticket prices that are much lower than rival clubs.

However, more work is needed to ensure that Birmingham have a chance of promotion, and after Alfie May’s departure to Huddersfield Town, another striker is needed.

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Birmingham City target Chuba Akpom after missing out on Oliver Antman

Rangers have beaten a number of Championship clubs – including Birmingham and Blackburn – to the signing of Finnish star Oliver Antman.

We revealed the interest earlier this summer from Birmingham and Blackburn and both held talks about a deal for the Go Ahead Eagles attacking midfielder. However, Scottish giants Rangers have agreed a £3m deal for the 23-year-old.

Now, following information from our Chief Football Correspondent Graeme Bailey, EFL Analysis can reveal that Birmingham have moved to secure former Middlesbrough star Chuba Akpom and are in talks with Ajax.

Ajax are hoping to sell him, but Birmingham have made an offer for a loan and they would take on his wages in full.

Graeme Bailey told us: “Birmingham really liked Antman – who was one of Europe’s leading assisters last season and would have been a huge player in the Championship. But Akpom could be a huge signing – let’s not forget last time he was in England, he bagged 29 goals.

“Birmingham know goals are key and they are continuing their hugely impressive summer by going for Akpom.”

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Chuba Akpom impressed greatly for Middlesbrough

While Akpom’s time at Ajax has been fraught with inconsistency, his last Championship campaign was excellent.

He scored 28 times in the second tier with Middlesbrough in 38 games during the 2022/23 season, helping Boro to the play-offs. However, they were beaten by Coventry City over two legs and missed out on promotion.

The 29-year-old also found the back of the net once in the FA Cup that year, but after finding goals harder to come by in the last couple of seasons, it may take a little bit of time to get Akpom firing once again.

However, experience is crucial and providing Jay Stansfield with ample competition is vital to the success that Birmingham will have in 2025/26.