Wanted man Adams set for new deal

BLUES are set to open contract negotiations with Che Adams to fend off interest from elsewhere – having already knocked back one offer from a Championship rival.

It is understood Blues rejected a bid from Fulham, believed to be around £5 million, earlier this summer.

And with other suitors likely to be circling, Birmingham recognise Adams’ status as one of the jewels in their squad.

Which is why they are willing to improve on terms signed less than a year ago when Gary Rowett bought him from Sheffield United.

Last August they put together a £1.9 million package to prise Adams from Bramall Lane, which included a three-year deal.

Adams showed enough potential last season to identify himself as the club’s most threatening attacker.

The former non-league youngster compiled a hugely promising first Championship campaign with 40 league appearances, including 28 starts, and seven goals.

His most important was the final-day winner at Bristol City, which effectively saved Blues from relegation.

He also made three assists but won nearly twice as many penalties with his pace, direct running and quick feet.

That has kept him on the radar of several Premier League and Championship clubs but he has no desire to move anywhere and Blues have no intention of selling him, so a new contract will be put before the 21-year-old in due course.

Manager Harry Redknapp is known to hold the striker in high regard and, in the aftermath of the dramatic scenes at Ashton Gate, tipped him for a bright future.

“He is a handful. He is a kid with real potential. I think he has got the ability to go all the way if he works at his game. He has definitely got what it takes,” he said.

Adams was in Austria with the rest of the Blues squad last week and looked to be in sharp form in training and in both matches.