Birmingham City manager Chris Davies has outlined his summer transfer plans, stating that six arrivals and six departures is 'around the right figure' for the club. This figure does not include the prospective permanent signings of Jhon Solis and Ibrahim Osman, who have been on loan at St Andrew's.
Davies on Transfer Targets
Davies has made no secret of his desire to re-sign Solis and Osman after their successful loan spells. Blues have an option to sign Solis permanently and are in discussions with City Football Group, who own the midfielder's parent club Girona, to secure a deal for the popular player.
Osman's situation is more complex, as there is no option in the loan agreement with Brighton. However, Brighton previously granted Auxerre a buy option when Osman joined them on loan, and there is hope that the Seagulls can be persuaded to negotiate. If Blues can sign both Solis and Osman, Davies believes his squad will only need fine-tuning for next season.
Quality Over Quantity
Asked whether he stands by his earlier quote about six signings and six departures, Davies said: 'I think that's around the right figure. You've got to look at some of the loans that we've had that we'll maybe explore. I suppose I've included them as being with us still but I know there's a lot of work to do there.'
'That's around the ball park number, I would say, but it's quality not quantity. We've got to make sure we get them right. I know it's not easy but it should be more possible with less players. When you're doing 12, 13 or 14 then you're going to get a few wrong but if we can take our time and really get this right I think we've got continuity.'
Davies added: 'I know what I think is necessary to take us on to that next level in this league. In every position I'm looking at, I know what that looks like. If we can get that right, that number should be fine.'
