Birmingham City's hopes for a late push towards the Championship play-offs could be dealt a significant blow this January, with the club now facing a genuine threat of losing a key defensive figure.
Sassuolo's Interest in Birmingham's Defensive Rock
According to reports from Italian journalist Maurizio Russo, relayed by Football League World, Serie A side Sassuolo are 'considering' a move for Birmingham defender Phil Neumann. The 28-year-old German centre-back only arrived at St. Andrews' @ Knighthead Park on a free transfer from Hannover 96 last summer but has swiftly become a crucial component of Chris Davies's side.
Neumann has featured 20 times for Blues this season, scoring twice and amassing 1,765 minutes of Championship football – a tally bettered by only four teammates. His aerial prowess and comfort in playing out from the back have made him a firm fixture in Davies's system.
The Aston Villa Connection That Could Force Birmingham's Hand
Intriguingly, Birmingham's arch-rivals Aston Villa could play an indirect role in any potential deal. Russo's report notes that Villa are themselves targeting Sassuolo's Bosnian international centre-back, Tarik Muharemovic, who is valued at around €30 million (approximately £26m) by the Italian club.
Should Villa succeed in prising Muharemovic away, Sassuolo would be forced to seek a rapid replacement, potentially turning their full attention to Neumann. While the interest in the Birmingham man is described as "not necessarily tied" to Muharemovic's sale, the departure would undoubtedly increase the urgency of Sassuolo's search.
Why Losing Neumann Would Be a Major Blow for Blues
For Birmingham, losing Neumann midway through the campaign would represent a severe setback. The defensive ranks are already thin following the early termination of Eiran Cashin's loan from Brighton & Hove Albion, leaving Davies with just three senior central defensive options.
The club's hierarchy, while aware they could turn a quick profit on a player signed on a pre-contract, would find that scant consolation if their promotion ambitions were undermined. With the team currently in 14th place in the Championship and aiming to reignite a push for the top six, stability at the back is paramount.
As the January window progresses, Birmingham City's resolve will be tested. The club and its supporters will be desperately hoping to retain their key defender, not least to avoid the added sting of seeing local rivals Aston Villa inadvertently facilitate his exit.
