Blues Blogs

Three Forwards That Birmingham Could Sign For Nothing This Summer

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In my final article looking at who we could sign on a free transfer this summer, I will look at a number of forwards who are available.

Not all of these will be realistic, but again, much will depend on what wages we can afford, and what other offers these players receive:

Abel Hernandez

The Uruguayan has been linked with Villa to join with up former manager Steve Bruce. However, their owner Tony Xia has vowed not to negotiate with the striker’s agents again after excessive wage demands were made when they tried to sign him in 2016.

If we were to try and sign the 27-year-old, his salary would likely prove too much. However, with Leeds also said to be in the mix though, it seems that even clubs with lower wage budgets could still be in with a chance. With 28 goals in 49 Championship games, he would be an invaluable signing.

Bakary Sako

We need to strengthen in wide areas to support Maghoma and Jota, and the Malian could be a good solution. Six goals in 19 games during an injury-hit season at Crystal Palace is certainly not a bad return.

Like Hernandez, the 30-year-old’s salary would likely be a major stumbling block. However, he can play wide right, wide left and through the middle, and would offer the squad some greater flexibility.

Jamie Mackie

At 32 years of age, the QPR forward has been released by the London side and is looking for a new club. He has bags of experience of the Championship and the Premier League, and if we are seeking an alternative to Lukas Jutkiewicz up front, the former Scottish international would be the perfect fit. His physicality could prove to be a perfect foil for a faster, more prolific strike partner.

His four goals in 20 appearances last season in the Championship was only one behind our no.10, who played 15 more games in the league. My feeling is though Garry Monk will be looking for a poacher. Mackie’s strike rate of one goal in seven games during his career would not fit the bill.

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