The West Bromwich Albion winger’s first team chances have taken another hit.
West Brom winger Callum McManaman
What’s next for West Bromwich Albion winger Callum McManaman, following Oliver Burke’s arrival at The Hawthorns? Is a move to Birmingham City possible?
HITC takes a look…
What’s his situation?
New West Brom winger Oliver Burke
Out of favour and out of contract next summer, it’s perhaps in McManaman’s interests to find a new club before this week’s transfer deadline, and the Baggies are unlikely to stand in his way. According to Transfermarkt, they paid £5.7 million for the 26-year-old in early 2015, but he’s only played twice for them in the league throughout the past 18 months. Sheffield Wednesday took him for the second half of last season, but couldn’t get him fit enough according to their manager, and are unlikely to go back in after bringing in George Boyd.
Why would Birmingham want him?
Birmingham City boss Harry Redknapp
Their manager Harry Redknapp is – or at least was – a fan, having tried to sign McManaman for Queens Park Rangers before West Brom came in, according to The Daily Mail, and would surely relish the idea of getting him back to his best. The Blues boss could be the lookout for another winger, having allegedly missed out on the signing of West Ham’s Robert Snodgrass to city rivals Aston Villa.
Could a move happen?
If Birmingham are willing then it’s hard to imagine either West Brom or McManaman digging their heels – it’s only a short hop down the road for him after all – although the Baggies may prefer a permanent deal knowing they’ll get nothing for him next summer, which could be a stumbling block. Much will likely depend on whether the Blues can land their preferred targets, but Harry is no stranger to a late window move.
What do you reckon – could McManaman to Birmingham happen this week?
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