Birmingham City are reportedly setting their sights on a significant January signing, with Newcastle United midfielder Alfie Harrison emerging as a key target.
Head coach Chris Davies, having already secured the services of left wing-back Kai Wagner, is now keen to bolster his midfield options as the Blues push for promotion to the Premier League.
Blues Target Premier League Prospect
According to reports from The Daily Mail, Birmingham are interested in a move for Newcastle youngster Alfie Harrison. The Magpies are said to be willing to part with the 20-year-old during this transfer window.
Newcastle initially paid £3.5 million to sign Harrison from Manchester City in February 2024. However, the midfielder is yet to make a competitive senior appearance under manager Eddie Howe.
With his contract set to expire in the summer of 2026, Newcastle could seek a small fee this month rather than risk losing him for nothing. Chronicle Live notes that Birmingham face competition from a clutch of other English and foreign clubs for his signature.
How Harrison Could Fit at St Andrew's
Despite his lack of first-team action at St. James' Park, Harrison has shown considerable promise in the youth ranks. Operating primarily as a defensive or central midfielder, he has also played in a more advanced role.
His record is impressive: five goals and 15 assists in 55 games for Newcastle's U21 side. Prior to that, he netted 14 goals and provided eight assists in just 31 appearances for Manchester City's U18 team.
For Birmingham, a move would represent a low-risk strategy with potential high reward. The fee is expected to be minimal, especially if a pre-contract agreement for the summer is reached.
While he may not be an immediate starter for a side in the thick of a promotion battle, Harrison's potential aligns with the club's strategy of building for the future while competing in the present.
Davies's January Transfer Activity
Chris Davies has been active in reshaping his squad. The arrival of Kai Wagner from Philadelphia Union has already paid dividends, with the defender registering an assist on his Championship debut and scoring in the FA Cup.
The Blues are also reportedly close to signing 21-year-old Gambian winger Abdoulie Manneh from Swedish side Mjallby. Securing Harrison would address a key need in central midfield, completing a targeted and ambitious January window for the Championship club.
