McLeish hopeful over Traore

Birmingham boss Alex McLeish is not too worried that his transfer target Armand Traore’s priority is to stay at Arsenal.

McLeish is looking to bring the 19 year old to St Andrews on a loan deal as he tries to strengthen his defence, especially the left back position.

As yet there is no word from Arsenal as to whether Arsene Wenger is willing to let the youngster out on loan, although he did let him go to Portsmouth last season.

McLeish understands Traore’s situation and is waiting for a response from the Gunners before deciding whether to move on to other targets.

‘We need to speak to Arsene Wenger,’ McLeish told Sky Sports News.

‘He has obviously got one or two injury problems himself.

‘We’ll be guided by him and if he sanctions him coming out then fine, if not we will have to look at something else.

‘Traore has played in the last two games for Arsenal, so of course he wants to play for Arsenal first. I don’t hold that against him in any way.

‘We just have to watch this space because it is a problem position.’