Birmingham City have completed five signings in the summer transfer window, and manager Chris Davies expects at least a few more before the deadline. The new arrivals include re-signings Jhon Solis and James Beadle, plus Dael Fry, Luis Vazquez, and Kristoffer Lund. As Blues prepare for their Championship opener against Swansea City, our expert Alex Dicken rates each deal.
Jhon Solis: A Perfect Fit for English Football
Solis earns a 9/10 rating, with no apparent downside to the deal. The young midfielder is well-suited to English football and could soon break into the Colombia national team. The £6 million fee is a significant investment, but Blues could make a profit within 12 months. The club has lowered the age profile of signings in recent windows to create assets, and Solis exemplifies this strategy.
Dael Fry: Proven Pedigree with Injury Concerns
Fry rates an 8/10, reflecting his Championship experience and defensive solidity. With nearly 300 appearances at the level, he has been involved in multiple promotion pushes, including Middlesbrough's play-off final last season. In 2025/26, he made 20 league starts, and Boro conceded only 15 goals with him on the pitch. However, his availability is a concern: he has started just 35 of 92 league games over the past two seasons due to injuries. The 28-year-old believes he has found a solution and has been injury-free since late last year. Blues have offered a three-year contract, hoping to see his best form.
James Beadle: Low-Risk Loan with High Potential
Beadle's second season-long loan is a low-risk move, rated 7/10. The 22-year-old goalkeeper provides continuity, and there is hope he can have a breakout season similar to Carl Rushworth at Coventry. While some argue Blues should have signed a permanent, more experienced keeper, this could prove a smart and economical decision.
Luis Vazquez: The Educated Punt
Vazquez, rated 6/10, is an Argentine striker with physical attributes suited to the Championship. However, he is untried in England, and his scoring record is modest: 37 goals in 233 matches. The reported £3 million fee makes him the biggest risk of the window so far. Based on limited pre-season action, he appears a hard-working forward, but his true impact will be judged when he leads the attack.
Kristoffer Lund: Replacing Wagner with Potential
Lund, rated 7/10, arrives as a replacement for Kai Wagner. The US international has a stronger physical profile and proven quality in top European leagues, including 26 Bundesliga starts for Koln and regular Serie B appearances for Palermo. At 24, he has his best years ahead, and the recruitment team's track record with left-backs raises hopes.
Overall Assessment and Future Moves
Blues are in decent shape ahead of the season, but there are vacancies in attack and possibly midfield, depending on Taylor Gardner-Hickman's future. Davies expects more signings before the deadline, indicating the window is not yet closed. With a mix of proven talent and potential, Birmingham City are building a squad capable of competing.
