Sam could be key in plan to recruit Bielik
BLUES are believed to be hatching a plan to sign Krystian Bielik on a permanent deal from Derby.
Sources claim Blues are struggling to come up with the funds needed to buy the midfielder, who is on a season-long loan at St Andrew’s.
Due to their financial struggles, they reportedly want to offer striker Sam Cosgrove to the Rams in a bid to land the Poland international permanently in January.
Derby have the option to recall Bielik next month but that is unlikely to happen given he is content at the Championship club.
It is now being claimed that Blues will consider throwing players into the deal, with Cosgrove, who is enjoying a fruitful loan at Plymouth, being one of those reportedly in the mix.
He scored for the Pilgrims at Derby earlier this season having come off the bench to help Argyle seal a 3-2 win.
While Cosgrove could form part of a player-plus-cash deal, Derby are yet to make a decision on whether to recall Bielik, who has just returned from the World Cup.
Blues are also reportedly considering a move for Portsmouth midfielder Jay Mingi.
The 22-year-old is said to be the subject of interest from Championship clubs with his contract at Fratton Park set to come to an end next summer. Pompey initially triggered a 12-month contract extension in May.
The League One side are keen to offer the player improved terms following an impressive first half to the campaign.
However, apparent interest from Blues, Albion and Huddersfield could make it difficult for Pompey to keep hold of him.
The Birmingham Post understands Portsmouth will face a ‘big call’ on Mingi in January and may be forced to sell him in the winter transfer window to get a fee for him.
Sources claim there is a possibility Blues could make an offer.
Pompey boss Danny Cowley has previously hailed the 22-year-old, saying: “He’s got athleticism and power and he can run past people in the one-versus-one duel.
“He’s growing, he’s developing, and he’s going to have some days when they are a young player where it’s not going to go as well.”