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Report: Derby and QPR lead race to sign unwanted Birmingham winger

Birmingham City's David Cotterill (REUTERS)
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Birmingham have told David Cotterill he can leave on a free transfer, with Derby and QPR keen on signing him.

Birmingham City's David CotterillBirmingham City’s David Cotterill

Although he still has a year to run on his current contract, Birmingham City have made the shock decision to tell David Cotterill he can leave on a free transfer this summer.

That is according to Wales Online, who go on to say that Derby County and QPR have already emerged as the early frontrunners to sign the winger.

Bristol City's David Cotterill (L) scores their second goal as Newcastle United's Karl Darlow looks onBristol City’s David Cotterill (L) scores their second goal as Newcastle United’s Karl Darlow looks on

Rams boss Gary Rowett knows Cotterill well, having managed the 29-year-old when he himself was in charge of Birmingham between October 2014 and December 2016.

However, Rowett’s successor – Gianfranco Zola – was not such a keen admirer of the wide man and allowed him to leave on loan for Bristol City in January.

It seems that Harry Redknapp, who took charge at St Andrew’s in April following Zola’s resignation, also doesn’t envisage Cotterill in his plans and it now remains to be seen what his next move will be.

Birmingham City manager Harry RedknappBirmingham City manager Harry Redknapp

The Wales international came through the ranks at Ashton Gate and has played the majority of his career in the Championship, although did have a brief spell in the Premier League with Wigan Athletic.

Cotterill also has 24 caps for the Welsh national team and was part of the squad that reached the semi-finals at Euro 2016.

Wales' David Cotterill during trainingWales’ David Cotterill during training