New signings ‘very close`

Blues` transfer dealings may have been sparse so far this summer but that is likely to change in the near future as the club are ‘very close` to adding to the squad in the coming days. Gary Rowett has been tying up loose ends of certain deals and on a couple of fronts it is now a case of dotting the i`s and crossing the t`s.

Rowett has been hitting his head against a brick wall with some of his targets. Blues have been on the trail of Jordan Cousins but Charlton Athletic will not negotiate their £2m asking price which could put an end to Blues` interest.

Sone Aluko, another Blues target, completed his move to Fulham last week. Blues did field an offer to Aluko`s representatives but, as is often the case in modern day football, couldn`t compete with the financial package already on the table.

Rowett`s priority is bringing in a striker but finding the right man has proved to be a difficult task. James Wilson has been considered but he is currently involved in first team training at Manchester United who are yet to make a definite decision on his future. Rowett would prefer a permanent signing if possible and any deal for Wilson is likely to be a temporary measure.

Former loanee Kyle Lafferty has been told he can leave Norwich City and has also been considered by Rowett but talks haven`t reached a final stage as both parties weigh up other options.

However, Vital Blues has been informed that Rowett is confident of bringing at least one new face into the building this week with others to follow in the not-so-distant future.

Watch this space.